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To be a competent SEO you need to know a lot about code, because that is where the optimization is done.  So an important thing for you to do is learn enough about code to do the optimization work  and if you can learn more than that it would be even better. In my opinion it is good that your company wants an in-house person to be involved with the site redesign.  Perhaps they would be willing to give you time away from other work to do reading and study to improve your skills.  Ask for it, get as  much as you can. Getting the right designer is really important.  Some of them know a lot about SEO and are extremely competent at it.  Some of them know nothing about SEO and will become defensive if you stick your nose into the code.  Others think that they are the designer and will make you a site - AND YOU ARE GOING TO LIKE IT. So, find the right designer.  One who really knows a lot about SEO and one who knows that you are the boss.   That will make all of the difference.  You don't want this job to be like pulling crocodile teeth.