Test Manager

Job Title: Test Manager - BEV Programme (Crewe, Remote Eligible)Duration: 6 months

About the Client: Our client is a British luxury automobile manufacturer, renowned for high-performance vehicles that combine traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge engineering. They are transitioning to an all-BEV (battery electric vehicle) portfolio under their Beyond100 strategy, aiming for carbon-neutral operations and modernised, digitised manufacturing.

Programme Context - Dream Factory: The "Dream Factory" at Crewe is a next-generation manufacturing hub integrating A1 assembly, Paint Shop, and logistics automation. Key upgrades include:

• PLM for end-to-end engineering-to-manufacturing continuity
• MES for execution excellence
• EWM for logistics optimisation

The programme uses Agile workstreams, MVP thinking, and a focus on reducing complexity and improving operational efficiency. The goal is scalable, resilient operations supporting our clients BEV portfolio while maintaining premium craftsmanship standards.

Role Overview: The Test Manager will lead and coordinate all testing activities across multiple workstreams within the Dream Factory programme. This role ensures a structured approach to testing, robust governance, and delivery of high-quality outcomes aligned with programme objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Test Planning and Strategy
   • Define and manage comprehensive Test Plans covering functional, integration, performance, and user acceptance testing.
   • Develop Test Strategies aligned with programme goals, encompassing scope, objectives, resources, schedule, and risk mitigation.
   • Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure test requirements are well-documented, prioritised, and understood.
2. Test Assurance and Governance
   • Establish and enforce Test Governance frameworks and standards.
   • Conduct quality gates, test audits, and reviews to ensure deliverables meet programme requirements.
   • Monitor test progress, KPIs, defect trends, and report to leadership.
3. Coordination and Collaboration
   • Lead and coordinate test teams across multiple workstreams.
   • Manage dependencies, resolve issues, and ensure efficient use of resources.
   • Facilitate clear communication between stakeholders, including Programme Managers, Business Analysts, Developers, and QA teams.
4. Test Execution Oversight
   • Validate test cases, monitor defect resolution, and maintain dashboards for executive reporting.
   • Oversee test execution to ensure alignment with programme objectives and quality standards.
5. Risk and Issue Management
   • Identify, assess, and mitigate risks impacting test delivery or quality outcomes.
   • Develop contingency plans and escalate critical issues as necessary.

Key Skills and Competencies:

• Strong expertise in test management for complex, multi-workstream programmes.
• Leadership and communication skills to influence stakeholders and lead diverse teams.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving to assess risk and interpret test data.
• Knowledge of testing methodologies: Agile, Waterfall, and Hybrid approaches.
• Experience with test management tools: JIRA, HP ALM, Zephyr, or similar.
• Programme-level perspective: ability to align testing with strategic objectives and operational efficiency.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Proven experience as a Test Manager in large-scale, multi-workstream programmes.
• Solid understanding of the SDLC and quality assurance best practices.
• ISTQB Advanced Test Manager certification or equivalent preferred.
• Experience in high-pressure environments and managing diverse teams.

Why Join:

• Work on a cutting-edge BEV programme with a luxury automotive brand.
• Play a pivotal role in the Dream Factory's transition to modern, digitised, and sustainable operations.
• Opportunity to influence testing governance and ensure premium quality standards.

We use generative AI tools to support our candidate screening process. This helps us ensure a fair, consistent, and efficient experience for all applicants. Rest assured, all final decisions are made by our hiring team, and your application will be reviewed with care and attention.

Pontoon is an employment consultancy. We put expertise, energy, and passion into improving everyone's chance of being part of the workplace. We respect and appreciate people of all ethnicities, generations, religious beliefs, sexual orientations, gender identities, and more. We do this by showcasing their talents, skills, and unique experience in an all-encompassing environment that helps them thrive.

Candidates will ideally show evidence of the above in their CV to be considered.

Please be advised if you haven't heard from us within 48 hours then unfortunately your application has not been successful on this occasion, we may however keep your details on file for any suitable future vacancies and contact you accordingly.

Pontoon is an employment consultancy and operates as an equal opportunity's employer.

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