Test Manager

We are seeking a skilled Test Manager to oversee and manage testing activities within the technology department of a business services environment. This temporary position is based in Bracknell and offers a competitive daily rate.

Client Details

The employer is a recognised and well-established organisation within the business services sector. Operating as part of a larger network, the company is committed to delivering high-quality solutions and promoting technological excellence.

Description

The Test Manager is responsible for defining and driving the overall test strategy, ensuring high-quality delivery of connected car services and associated software. This role provides leadership and oversight across all test activities, from planning through execution to sign-off, with accountability for ensuring that solutions are robust, reliable, and fit for purpose. The Test Manager will engage with multiple stakeholders, manage risks, produce clear and comprehensive documentation, and act as a trusted advisor on all matters related to testing and quality assurance.

• Define, document, and own the test strategy, approach, and governance framework across projects and releases. (strategy heavily reliant on input and coordination from 3rd part applications)
• Develop and maintain detailed test plans, schedules, and resourcing models, ensuring alignment with overall delivery and release objectives.
• Establish and enforce testing standards, frameworks, methodologies, and tools, including test automation where appropriate.
• Manage all phases of testing (unit, integration, system, UAT, performance, security, regression, etc.) across multiple domains.
• Ensure clear entry/exit criteria are agreed and adhered to for all test phases; provide go/no-go recommendations based on results and risk.
• Lead risk-based testing, identifying, managing, and mitigating quality risks throughout the lifecycle.
• Collaborate closely with development teams, architects, business analysts, product owners, release managers, and other stakeholders to ensure testing is integrated into the delivery pipeline.
• Provide high-quality test documentation, including strategies, plans, test cases, results, and closure reports, tailored for both technical and senior business audiences.
• Manage defect lifecycle, prioritization, and resolution, ensuring issues are tracked and closed effectively.
• Oversee test environment requirements, readiness, and availability, coordinating with infrastructure and operations teams.
• Drive continuous improvement in testing practices, tools, automation coverage, and reporting.
• Act as a single point of accountability for test delivery within the programme, ensuring alignment to release and business outcomes.
• Mentor and guide test teams and promote a culture of quality across the organisation.

KPI's

• Test coverage metrics (requirements coverage, functional/non-functional coverage).
• Defect detection rate, defect leakage into production, and defect turnaround time.
• Automation coverage and efficiency improvements.
• Test execution progress against plan and timely reporting.
• Quality of test documentation and stakeholder feedback.
• Reduction in production incidents caused by insufficient testing.
• Environment availability and utilization for test activities.
• Adherence to release and test schedules.

Profile

A successful Test Manager should have:

Mandatory

• Proven experience as a Test Manager in complex software development environments, ideally within connected car services or related domains.
• Strong understanding of software development lifecycles (Agile and Waterfall) and integration into test management practices.
• Demonstrable experience in defining and implementing test strategies, frameworks, and governance.
• Ability to produce clear, concise, and high-quality test documentation for both technical and business stakeholders.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage and motivate teams, vendors, and stakeholders in a matrixed environment.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, able to explain technical issues to non-technical audiences.
• Proactive issue, risk, and conflict management with strong decision-making capabilities.
• Solid understanding of IT infrastructure, application development, and systems integration.
• Experience in test automation tools, frameworks, and practices.

Desirable

• Experience in connected vehicle ecosystems, IoT, or automotive software testing.
• Knowledge of security, performance, and compliance testing.
• Experience working in a fast-paced, multicultural, and multi-vendor environment.
• Proficiency in modern test management and reporting tools.
• Strong stakeholder management skills with experience in customer-facing roles.

Job Offer

• Competitive day rate of up to £600 a day Inside IR35.
• Working from the office three days a week in Bracknell.
• Temporary role with opportunities to contribute to high-impact projects.
• Work within a reputable organisation.
• Chance to collaborate with professionals in the technology and business services sectors.

If you are an experienced Test Manager eager to take on an exciting temporary role, we encourage you to apply today!