Lewis Self

WordPress Developer

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I am a WordPress Developer with over a decade of experience, taking pride in creating custom systems that meet unique requirements. I develop powerful WordPress plugins elevating website functionality and user experience.

I have worked with diverse clients, each with their distinct visions and goals. My commitment to attention to detail have earned me the trust of my clients, and I take great satisfaction in transforming their ideas into reality. Whether it’s creating a new website, optimizing an existing one, or developing plugins to extend their website functionality, I am dedicated to delivering digital experiences that make a difference to my clients and their customers.

FDsc Computing

Sunderland University

I hold a Foundation Degree in Computing from Sunderland University, I achieved a distinction with marks ranging from 70% to 98% across various units.

This course alongside working full time in IT equipped me with a solid theoretical understanding and practical skills in computing, laying a strong foundation for my career in software development.

Experience

A decade of experience with WordPress

With over a decade of dedicated experience in WordPress development, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every project I undertake.

Since the early stages of my career, I have immersed myself in the WordPress ecosystem, helping with the Make WordPress slack team and developing plugins and themes for the WordPress repository.

Based in Newcastle Upon Tyne

Over a decade experience creating WordPress websites

As a WordPress developer, I create and customize websites using WordPress. I design layouts, develop themes, and integrate plugins using HTML, CSS, and PHP. I troubleshoot technical issues, optimize performance, and provide ongoing maintenance and support for seamless operation.

Work Experience

Tracer Power

February 2023 – Present

Full Stack Developer

While working at Tracer Power, I designed and developed a bespoke production management system using a headless WordPress architecture with a React front end. The application was deployed on tablets across the production line, enabling operators to manage their workloads while providing managers with real-time visibility of production progress and job completion times to support informed business decisions. This project won the “Innovation Award” for Durham, Sunderland & South Tyneside.

In addition to software development, I produced marketing performance reports, implemented technical and on-page SEO improvements across the company’s websites, and provided general IT maintenance and technical support to colleagues, ensuring the smooth operation of day-to-day business systems.

Urban River

July 2021 – February 2023

WordPress Developer

While working at Urban River, I managed the entire website development process, from the initial client consultation and requirements gathering through to the successful launch of completed websites. This role strengthened my communication, project management, and problem solving skills, enabling me to effectively understand client requirements and deliver tailored web solutions.

My responsibilities included:

  • Managing and maintaining the company’s web server infrastructure.
  • Creating website wireframes to plan user experience and site structure.
  • Designing and developing bespoke WordPress themes tailored to client requirements.
  • Deploying and launching websites, ensuring a smooth and reliable release process.
  • Producing SEO reports, implementing technical and on-page SEO improvements, and monitoring website performance.

Cell Pack Solutions

Feb 2015 – July 2021

IT Technician

While working at Cell Pack Solutions, I collaborated with a team of developers to design and build a bespoke WordPress theme from scratch for the company’s online shop. I also developed custom WordPress plugins to introduce additional functionality and enhance the overall user experience. Additionally, I pioneered the adoption of GitHub as the team’s version control system, improving collaboration, code management, and development efficiency across the department. As part of my role, I also created custom Gutenberg blocks to provide flexible, reusable content components for the website.

YMCA North Tyneside

Oct 2013 – Feb 2015

Apprentice IT Technician

While working at YMCA North Tyneside, I was responsible for maintaining the organisation’s IT systems, managing and updating the company website, and creating engaging marketing materials, including professionally designed leaflets used throughout the organisation.

Portfolio

South Shields Chess Club

Designed and developed a modern website for South Shields Chess Club, creating an accessible online presence to showcase club information, events, and activities.

The project focused on delivering a clear and user-friendly experience, making it easier for members and visitors to discover information about the club, keep updated with news, and engage with the organisation online.

AFD Vocal & Performing Coaching

Tracer Power

Cell Pack Solutions

Education

Foundation Degree in Computing

The University of Sunderland

Distinction

I hold a Foundation Degree in Computing from the University of Sunderland, graduating with a Distinction. Throughout the course, I consistently achieved high marks, ranging from 70% to 98% across a variety of modules. The programme provided a strong foundation in both the theoretical principles and practical applications of computing, equipping me with the technical knowledge and problem-solving skills that have supported my career in software and web development.

Extended National Diploma in Graphic Design

Newcastle College

Merit, Merit, Merit

While studying Graphic Design at Newcastle College, I developed a strong understanding of core design principles and gained practical experience using the Adobe Creative Suite. Throughout the course, I learned the complete design process, from developing initial concepts and creative ideas through to producing fully realised, functional design outcomes. This experience strengthened my ability to combine creativity, technical skills, and problem-solving to deliver effective visual solutions.