Quality Assurance Manager
Insurance
Hybrid - Manchester
£70-£80k + Benefits
Our client, an global Insurance organisation has a need for an experienced Quality Assurance Manager to define and lead the Quality Assurance practice across the IT & project teams, ensuring the delivery of high-quality solutions that meet business needs.
This role oversees the planning, coordination, and execution of testing activities, manages a team of QA Analysts, and ensures adherence to best practices in quality assurance and testing methodologies. The QA Manager acts as a strategic partner to development, project and business teams, driving continuous improvement in QA processes and tools, and ensuring that all technical releases are robust, reliable, and aligned business objectives.
Responsibilities
* Directly or indirectly manage 10-20 QA resources, primarily from 3rd party partners, including recruitment, mentoring, performance management, and professional development.
* Define and implement the overall QA strategy, structure & processes, aligning with business goals and IT delivery frameworks (Agile, Waterfall, etc.).
* Act as a Test Manager on the Transformation Programme, defining the test strategy and approach and managing resources to deliver and ensure quality outcomes.
* Oversee the planning, development, and execution of test strategies, test plans, and automated testing frameworks on both projects and BAU small change.
* Ensure quality standards are maintained across all projects and releases, including third-party vendor deliverables.
* Collaborate with Development Managers, Business Analysts, and Project Managers to ensure quality is embedded throughout the software development lifecycle.
* Champion the use of automation, artificial intelligence and continuous testing practices to improve efficiency and reduce time to market.
* Monitor and report on QA metrics, identifying trends and areas for improvement.
* Manage risks and issues related to quality assurance and escalate where necessary.
* Ensure compliance with internal standards, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
* Act as a key point of contact for senior stakeholders regarding QA matters.
* Promote a culture of quality, accountability, and continuous improvement across the IT function.
* May perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
* 7+ years of experience in Quality Assurance, with at least 2 years in a leadership or managerial role desirable.
Required Skills
* Proven experience in managing QA teams and delivering QA strategies in both Agile and Waterfall environments.
* Insurance Industry experience.
* Strong understanding of software development lifecycles and QA methodologies.
* Experience with test automation tools and frameworks.
* Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
* Ability to influence and drive change across teams and departments.
* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
* Familiarity with tools such as JIRA, Confluence, Microsoft Office Suite, Playwright or other similar test management platforms.
* Knowledge of SQL and relational databases.
* Scripting experience is desirable.