What is a senior developer?

Writen as part of my application from Ruby Engineer to Senior Engineer at OnTheBeach

I believe a senior developer has the responsibility to encourage those around them to aspire and excel. To mentor, coach and reflect understanding of the core qualities and knowledge required for developers to provide true value. To command respect through leadership and by example. To contemplate and absorb problems and relay solutions in a simple and understandable manner. Engage with management to produce results in line with technical strategy, while shielding developers from business demands and explaining the transition into business needs in an agile way. Being a senior developer brings with it a much greater requirement than just solid experience and skill. Being trustworthy, pragmatic, engaging and understanding gives the ability for greater stability and structure which allows the team as a whole to function as a productive and happy entity.