Automation Test Manager
Are you a leader passionate about testing and automation? Do you thrive in roles where you can shape and drive automation strategies using your deep technical expertise? If so, join us as we redefine the quality and efficiency of our testing solutions. We're looking for an Automation Test Manager to lead a skilled team of testers dedicated to an automation-first approach. As an Automation Test Manager, you'll report directly to the Head of Test and take full ownership of developing advanced automation strategies within our testing framework. You'll leverage your experience in building test automation frameworks from the ground up, provide strategic guidance on automation best practices, and ensure our team uses the latest tools and methodologies. We're a UK-based organization with a commitment to advancing education, and we're looking for a leader who can help us drive quality and innovation in our testing solutions.
What's in it for me?
If the above isn't enough of a reason to join us, here are some of the benefits we offer:
* Balance your 35-hour workweek with flexible hours and smart working tools for office and home.
* Enjoy 25 days of annual leave, increasing incrementally to 30 days after five years, plus up to an additional 4 discretionary days over Christmas and New Year.
* Take 5 additional paid days to participate in volunteering activities that are close to your heart.
* Access private medical insurance from day one, covering new and pre-existing conditions.
* Benefit from our Ride-to-Work scheme, gym access or discounts, Headspace app, and an employee assistance programme.
* Enjoy a newly refurbished office with a variety of individual and collaborative workspaces, an onsite gym, yoga and games room with a discounted eatery.
* Receive up to 11.5% employer pension contributions with various options through salary sacrifice.
* Opt for our electric vehicle scheme, including insurance, MOT, service, and breakdown cover.
What will I need to succeed:
* Expertise in testing: A broad understanding of all test levels and testing types including functional, non-functional testing and a keen focus on automation frameworks.
* Leadership skills: Proven ability to inspire and manage a geographically dispersed team, driving them toward personal and professional success.
* Communication pro: Excellent planning, reporting, and people management skills, with the ability to influence and negotiate at all levels.
* Tech-savvy: Strong understanding of agile software development and the tools that support it (e.g., AzureDev Ops).
* Problem solver: Assertive and resilient, you excel at unblocking challenges and adapting to change in a fast-paced environment.
Ready to Lead?
This is your chance to be a key player in an organization that values quality and innovation. If you're ready to take the next step in your career and lead a team that's making a real difference, apply now and let's build the future of testing together.
Key Accountabilities:
Support the Head of Test in implementing and continuously improving software and test practices, processes and tools aligned to agile and lean principles.
Ensure the successful delivery of software solutions projects in line with agreed timescales and priorities.
Mentor and coach other team members, driving personal and professional development to facilitate cross-skilling in the team.
Identify ways to continually improve team processes and ways of working, and support the Head of Test in the creation of a centre of excellence for Test in AQA.
Drive the continuous improvement of ways of working in Software Solutions and of wider departmental practices.
Ensure a delivery-focused approach to testing, whilst maintaining a proportionate balance between the need for quality vs. delivery in the context of the high stakes nature of AQA's business.
Work with the business, other technical teams and external partners (third parties) to design, plan and deliver software solutions and software solution integrations.
To build and foster strong working relationships with colleagues, key business stakeholders, 3rd party partners and throughout AQA.
Undertake appropriate mitigation and avoidance actions as assigned, in accordance with identified Issues and Risks.
Provide regular, simple, clear and accurate reporting and tracking on test activities.
Line manage Test team members to get the best outcomes for individuals and AQA in line with AQA's practices, policies and procedures.