Scrum Master (Software Development / SAFe)

Scrum Master (Software Development / SAFe) Location: Hertfordshire / Cambridge / London - Hybrid Contract: 12+ Months – Outside IR35 The Opportunity Our client is seeking an experienced Scrum Master to lead high-performing software development squads within their Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe). In this role, you will be the primary facilitator for the team, ensuring they remain focused on delivering high-quality software while navigating the complexities of a scaled environment. You will act as a servant-leader, removing impediments, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and ensuring alignment with broader organizational goals. Key Responsibilities * Facilitate Scrum Ceremonies: Guide the team through all standard Agile events (Sprint Planning, Daily Stand-ups, Backlog Refinement, and Retrospectives) for software development projects. * SAFe Integration: Represent the team in ART (Agile Release Train) syncs and participate in PI Planning to manage risks, map dependencies on the Program Board, and commit to achievable objectives. * Software Delivery Excellence: Work closely with Developers and Product Owners to ensure the team remains focused on the sprint goal and delivers value in alignment with the Definition of Done (DoD). * Impediment Removal: Proactively identify and resolve technical or organizational blockers that impact the team’s velocity or software quality. * Azure DevOps Management: Maintain high data integrity within Azure DevOps (AzDO), ensuring Work Items, Features, and Sprints are accurately tracked and reflected in real-time. * Metrics & Transparency: Utilize Azure DevOps Analytics and Dashboards to track and communicate team health, cycle time, velocity, and progress toward program-level milestones. * Coaching & Mentorship: Coach the team and stakeholders on Lean-Agile principles, helping the organization transition toward more efficient software delivery practices. Required Qualifications * Certification: CSM (Certified Scrum Master) or A-CSM (Advanced Certified Scrum Master) is required. * Experience: 3+ years of experience as a Scrum Master specifically within a Software Development environment. * SAFe Exposure: Solid experience working within the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), including active participation in PI Planning and ART synchronization. * SDLC Knowledge: A strong understanding of the software development lifecycle, including modern DevOps, CI/CD, and quality assurance practices. * Tooling Expert: Deep proficiency in Azure DevOps (Boards, Repos, and Pipelines) for managing backlogs and tracking progress in a scaled environment. Core Competencies * Servant Leadership: A commitment to empowering developers and shielding the team from outside interruptions. * Communication: Exceptional ability to bridge communication between technical teams and business stakeholders. * Systems Thinking: The ability to understand how individual team deliverables integrate into the larger software ecosystem. Scrum Master (Software Development / SAFe)