I am currently looking for a highly capable and experienced Test Lead to join a multidisciplinary agile team delivering secure and user-focused digital services. This role involves leading testing activities across large-scale government programmes that follow GDS (Government Digital Service) standards and requires an individual with exceptional quality assurance skills, leadership ability, and a deep understanding of agile delivery in public sector environments.
Due to the nature of the work, candidates must hold active SC clearance and be British-born nationals.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the design, planning, and execution of test strategies and test cases.
* Apply Government Digital Service (GDS) standards throughout the testing lifecycle.
* Define and implement quality processes, standards, and best practices across teams.
* Collaborate with project managers, developers, and stakeholders to align test coverage with delivery objectives.
* Manage test environments and ensure all readiness activities are completed.
* Monitor testing progress, defect trends, and quality metrics; report risks and readiness status.
* Coach, mentor, and upskill QA/test professionals within the team.
* Ensure end-to-end traceability from requirements through to test execution.
* Contribute to risk assessments and provide informed go/no-go recommendations for releases.
* Challenge project timelines and ensure quality outcomes are maintained under pressure.
Essential Skills & Experience
* Proven experience as a Test Lead or Senior QA Analyst in complex agile environments.
* Deep knowledge of software testing life cycle (STLC) and test design methodologies.
* Strong documentation skills - capable of producing structured, concise test artefacts.
* Hands-on experience with test management tools (e.g., JIRA, Confluence).
* Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
* Effective in managing multiple priorities in high-demand project settings.
* Exposure to GDS principles, public sector delivery, or secure/government environments is highly desirable.
* Passion for developing others and promoting continuous learning within teams.
Mandatory Requirements
* Must hold active SC Clearance (Security Check)
* Must be a British-born national (due to project-level security requirements)
* Right to work in the UK
* Available to work Inside IR35 on an umbrella-only basis
* Daily Rate: £550 (umbrella)
What You'll Get
* The chance to lead quality assurance on meaningful public sector digital services
* Work within a high-performing, mission-driven agile team
* Influence strategic quality direction while staying technically hands-on
If you meet the criteria and are ready to take the lead on secure, impactful testing programmes - we'd love to hear from you.
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