SC Test manager

Description:

SC Test Manager (Contract)
Location: Fully Remote (UK)
Rate: £415 per day (Outside IR35)
Contract Length: Initial 3-month assignment with potential extension
Security Clearance: Active SC Clearance required
Equipment: Contractor to provide own laptop and equipment
Engagement: Outside IR35

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Test Manager to support the delivery of a high-profile Central Government portfolio within a complex multi-vendor environment.
The successful candidate will be responsible for leading test strategy, planning, governance, and delivery across a dedicated portfolio, ensuring quality objectives are achieved throughout the software development lifecycle. This role requires strong hands-on knowledge of modern testing practices, including test automation, API testing, functional testing, and Agile delivery methodologies.
The Test Manager will work closely with suppliers, delivery teams, developers, business stakeholders, and programme leadership to ensure testing is delivered efficiently and effectively.

Key Responsibilities

Lead all test management activities across a dedicated project portfolio.
Develop and maintain test strategies, test plans, and testing schedules.
Manage end-to-end testing activities including functional, integration, system, regression, and user acceptance testing.
Coordinate testing activities across multiple suppliers and delivery teams within a complex delivery landscape.
Drive automation adoption and ensure test coverage is maximised through automated solutions.
Oversee API and integration testing activities.
Monitor quality metrics and provide regular reporting to programme stakeholders.
Manage testing risks, issues, dependencies, and mitigation plans.
Facilitate defect triage sessions and support defect resolution activities.
Ensure testing aligns with programme governance standards and Government delivery requirements.
Support continuous improvement initiatives across testing practices, tooling, and processes.

Essential Skills & Experience

Proven experience operating as a Test Manager within large-scale transformation or digital programmes.
Active SC Clearance.
Extensive experience working within Central Government or wider Public Sector environments.
Strong experience managing testing activities across complex multi-vendor environments.
Hands-on experience with Test Automation Frameworks.
Strong knowledge of Playwright for automated testing.
Experience managing and delivering API testing activities.
Experience managing Functional Testing across multiple workstreams.
Strong understanding of Agile delivery methodologies and agile testing practices.
Experience with defect management and test reporting.
Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
Experience working with development, business analysis, DevOps, and delivery teams.

Desirable Skills

Experience within cloud-based environments.
Knowledge of CI/CD pipelines and automated deployment processes.
Experience using tools such as Azure DevOps, Jira, Confluence, Postman, or similar.
ISTQB Test Manager, Agile Testing, or equivalent certification.

Assignment Details

Fully remote role.
Initial 3-month engagement with potential extension.
Contractor to focus on one portfolio at a time.
Outside IR35 contract.
£415 per day.
Own equipment required.
Immediate start preferred.

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