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Manager Applications Development Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA · Hybrid

$43.50 - $55.75/hr

Working as part of the Applications Development team within our Information Technology department ... Basic understanding of project management lifecycles * Ability to learn new skills languages as ...

... AI-powered applications and developer tools to drive more transparent customer communication ... The Business Development Manager will be instrumental in helping new Home Improvement Contractors ...

Mainframe Developer

Davenport, IA · On-site +1

$43.50 - $55.75/hr

Working as part of the Applications Development team within our Information Technology department ... Basic understanding of project management lifecycles * Ability to learn new skills languages as ...

Join our team as a Sales Development Manager today! As the world's leading provider of process ... Knowledge of power and steam applications, specifications and valve solutions * Experience leading ...

Join our team as a Sales Development Manager today! As the world's leading provider of process ... Knowledge of power and steam applications, specifications and valve solutions * Experience leading ...

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Manager Applications Development information

What is the difference between Manager Applications Development vs Software Development Manager?

AspectManager Applications DevelopmentSoftware Development Manager
Primary FocusOversees application development projects, manages application teams, and ensures delivery of software solutions.Leads software development teams, focusing on overall software product development and technical strategy.
Required SkillsProject management, application lifecycle knowledge, team leadership, and client communication.Software engineering expertise, team management, technical architecture, and coding experience.
Work EnvironmentTypically in IT or software companies, working closely with business units and application teams.In tech firms or software companies, collaborating with developers, QA, and product managers.

Both roles involve team leadership and technical oversight, but Manager Applications Development emphasizes managing application projects and client needs, while Software Development Manager focuses on overall software product development and technical strategy.

What are some common challenges faced by a manager applications development when leading a diverse development team?

A Manager Applications Development often encounters challenges such as balancing competing project deadlines, addressing varying skill levels within the team, and ensuring clear communication between stakeholders and developers. Managing shifting priorities while maintaining high code quality and aligning the team with organizational goals can also be demanding. To succeed, managers typically foster a collaborative environment, provide mentorship, and implement agile methodologies to adapt to changing requirements.

What does a manager applications development do?

A Manager of Applications Development oversees teams responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications within an organization. They coordinate project timelines, manage resources, and ensure that applications meet business requirements and quality standards. This role often involves collaborating with other departments, mentoring development staff, and implementing best practices in software development. Additionally, they stay updated on technology trends to help guide strategic decisions for application improvements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a manager applications development?

To thrive as a Manager Applications Development, you need expertise in software development methodologies, project management, and a relevant degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with tools like Jira, Agile/Scrum frameworks, and experience with programming languages and cloud platforms are typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help drive team performance and foster innovation. These competencies are vital for delivering high-quality applications on time, leading effective teams, and aligning technical solutions with business goals.
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Manager Applications Development jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Manager Applications Development job openings:
Infographic showing various Manager Applications Development job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Manager, Applications Development - Digital Platforms

American Equity

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

American Equity Investment Life Insurance Company is a leading provider of annuity solutions designed to help clients protect and grow retirement income. Part of Brookfield Wealth Solutions, we partner with more than 40,000 financial professionals and help fund over half a million retirements nationwide. Recognized by Newsweek as one of America's Most Trustworthy Companies and named a Top Workplace in Iowa, American Equity fosters a collaborative and purpose-driven culture where employees are empowered to ignite their passion and help shape the future of financial services.
Headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, with satellite offices in Charlotte, NC and New York, NY, American Equity provides opportunities for employees to support work across the enterprise, including our sister company, American National, headquartered in Houston, Texas.
GENERAL PURPOSE OF THE JOB:
The Manager, Applications Development - Digital Platforms leads high performing teams engaged in business analysis, software development, integration, and vendor management of American Equity's digital platforms, including its websites, mobile apps, and other digital self-service channels. It includes the responsibility for collaborating with the Business leadership, Project Management Office, Function Subject Matter Expertise, and all IT organizations to design and implement automated and analytical solutions supporting the Digital Platforms roadmap for distribution processes while staying within schedule, budget and scope constraints.
**Position sits in Des Moines and will work an onsite schedule**
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Accountable for the implementation of a roadmap for Digital Platforms, including multiple web properties and mobile apps, supporting Marketing, Distribution, and Customer Excellence business functions. Forms effective partnerships with function teams and a variety of IT staff, including but not limited to direct reports, other IS managers, IT leadership, business units and business partners.
  • Leads software development and business analyst professionals in the refinement, design, implementation, testing and transition of software in accordance with established software development and design control processes, including the delivery of application software specifications, design and unit test documentation and associated design reviews. Leads the skills assessment needs, including the reskilling plans and incorporation of flex capabilities.
  • Leads a diverse team of employees with responsibility for managing the employee life cycle and experience, including but not limited to, selection and retention of talent, continuous feedback and performance management, reward and recognition, corrective action and employee development; leads new hire orientation and onboarding experiences for new employees.
  • Manages multiple vendors and vendor engagements, including software and platform providers, niche skillset providers, and providers of flex capacity for their teams. In partnership with the Procurement department, negotiates and manages multiple types of agreements including licensing, subscriptions, fixed-bid contracts, and T&M contracts.
  • Collaborates with IS Operations to maintain the production technical environments to ensure system quality and availability and performance expectations for customers.
  • Continually analyses utilization of the digital platforms via multiple tools and methodologies to identify potential issues, and help inform future roadmaps and strategy.
  • Ensures the proper utilization of all team members to promote the team approach for employee allocation and problem resolution.
  • Communicates and coordinates process, procedure and expectation additions/changes to employees that align with corporate strategy.
  • Establishes and monitors metrics for performance oversight and processes improvement.
  • Remains current on technological advances, emerging trends and applicable laws, rules and regulations impacting the business.
  • Accountable for prudent management of departmental expenses by establishing and monitoring a department budget in accordance with corporate guidelines.
  • Performs other related work as assigned.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Direct Reports:
Team Leader(s) Information Systems, Application Developers, Systems Analysts, and/or UX designers.
Indirect Reports:
Varies; may provide oversight of other information technology team members through matrix management.
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor's degree (B.A.) in MIS, information technology, or related field of study; plus five (5) years of progressively responsible related technical information systems experience; or equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
Minimum of one (1) year of prior supervisory experience required.
Prior experience in an Agile environment preferred.
CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS: None required for this position.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • String experience and proven track record in managing one or more software development teams, utilizing Agile or other iterative methodologies.
  • Expertise in software development platforms, languages (such as React and Angular), architecture, and methodologies related to the modern design of digital portals, including knowledge of emerging technical innovations and best practices.
  • Broad knowledge of information technology functions and disciplines, including but not limited to, architecture, data management, operations, security and business analysis.
  • Ability to lead software development efforts in a dynamically changing environment.
  • Knowledge of vendor management.
  • Ability to mentor and build strong teams.
  • Strong customer service orientation.
  • Strong stakeholder management skills.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work cooperatively and successfully with employees, customers, and other outside third parties.
  • Strong organizational and planning skills.
  • Strong problem solving, risk assessment, and risk management skills.
  • Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions.
  • Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
  • Ability to successfully handle pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced work environment.

This description covers the major purpose and essential functions of the job. It is not intended to give all details or a step-by-step account of the way each task is to be performed. Employees may receive other job related instructions and be required to perform other job related work requested by their manager. All requirements are subject to possible modification to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities.
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At American Equity, our core values-Empowered, Passion, Integrity, and Caring-are more than words. They guide how we support one another and how we serve our clients every day. To learn more about American Equity, our culture, and our values, visit the Careers site.
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