I'm Richard Dykins, a Lead Software Engineer with 15+ years delivering custom software solutions and modernising legacy systems. I specialise in full-stack PHP and JavaScript ecosystems, including Drupal, Symfony, Laravel, React, Next.js and cloud-based microservices. I thrive on collaborating with clients to translate business needs into robust, scalable software and I enjoy shaping cross-functional teams to ship high-quality products. When I'm not building software, I bring the same energy and curiosity to music and performance, which fuels my collaborative approach and creative problem-solving in tech teams.

Richard Dykins

I'm Richard Dykins, a Lead Software Engineer with 15+ years delivering custom software solutions and modernising legacy systems. I specialise in full-stack PHP and JavaScript ecosystems, including Drupal, Symfony, Laravel, React, Next.js and cloud-based microservices. I thrive on collaborating with clients to translate business needs into robust, scalable software and I enjoy shaping cross-functional teams to ship high-quality products. When I'm not building software, I bring the same energy and curiosity to music and performance, which fuels my collaborative approach and creative problem-solving in tech teams.

Available to hire

I’m Richard Dykins, a Lead Software Engineer with 15+ years delivering custom software solutions and modernising legacy systems. I specialise in full-stack PHP and JavaScript ecosystems, including Drupal, Symfony, Laravel, React, Next.js and cloud-based microservices. I thrive on collaborating with clients to translate business needs into robust, scalable software and I enjoy shaping cross-functional teams to ship high-quality products.

When I’m not building software, I bring the same energy and curiosity to music and performance, which fuels my collaborative approach and creative problem-solving in tech teams.

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Experience Level

Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Expert
Intermediate
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Language

English
Fluent

Work Experience

Software Engineer at Seasoned Digital Limited
April 1, 2024 - Present
Led custom software development using PHP, Typescript, Drupal 10, Hugo, and React, delivering tailored solutions and improved client satisfaction through modern tech stacks.
Tech Lead at Cavu
December 1, 2024 - July 1, 2025
Improved team engagement and ways of working using lean coffee and review processes. Devised strategic approach for new features, including a flight lookup API, and led a Laravel/.NET microservices initiative to extend active parking bookings.
Lead Developer at Origin Centre of Excellence
August 1, 2022 - April 1, 2024
Led cross-functional teams to define requirements and ensure project alignment. Developed a Next.js app with reusable React components, integrated NetSuite CRM via Node.js, and implemented asynchronous solutions to improve API performance.
Lead Developer at Gear4 Music
March 1, 2022 - August 1, 2022
Led navigation UX updates for a global trade show, redesigned cookie controls for privacy compliance, and improved user consent management. Enhanced agile methodologies to boost team morale and productivity.
Lead Developer at Ski-Lifts Limited
November 1, 2018 - March 1, 2022
Migrated infrastructure to AWS (EC2) with a load-balanced solution, built an in-house tech team, and implemented CI/CD pipelines with Docker. Facilitated agile ceremonies and conducted code reviews to reduce production bugs.
Senior PHP Developer at Reading Room
January 1, 2018 - November 1, 2018
Integrated Church of England’s Prayer for the Day API, automated content imports, and analyzed infrastructure performance for high concurrency during major events. Implemented fixtures and features to streamline match releases.
Technical Developer at Reading Room
August 1, 2015 - January 1, 2018
Developed the One Manchester website, integrated QL CRM SOAP API, and improved deployment consistency with Docker and Jenkins. Provided 24/7 managed services for high-profile sites.
Web Developer at Living Media
June 1, 2009 - August 1, 2015
Integrated AutoCab and PayPal REST APIs, used Git for version control, and promoted modern web technologies. Coordinated with promotions teams to boost brand and delivered 24/7 reliability for client sites.

Education

BSc Physics at University of Nottingham
September 1, 2006 - June 1, 2009

Qualifications

Add your qualifications or awards here.

Industry Experience

Software & Internet, Media & Entertainment, Professional Services