Xpert: Senior Test Manager / Test Architect

Job description

Role: Senior Test Manager / Test Architect Location: Gloucestershire (Hybrid) Engagement: TBC Start: TBC (Target: End July / Early August) Clearance Required: Active SC, or SC + NPPV3 Role Summary The Senior Test Manager / Test Architect will drive quality assurance across large-scale programmes, leading QA initiatives, overseeing delivery, and advancing testing and automation strategies. This role partners closely with development, architecture, and business teams to ensure secure, high-quality delivery across the SDLC while maintaining strong governance and quality standards. Key Responsibilities • Define and implement test strategies aligned to programme objectives and quality standards • Own end-to-end test lifecycle including planning, estimation, execution, defect management, reporting, and sign-off • Ensure functional and non-functional testability of requirements • Monitor and improve quality delivery across teams and workstreams • Mentor and lead QA teams across manual, automation, and non-functional disciplines • Drive automation, performance, and security testing initiatives • Engage stakeholders throughout the SDLC • Support CI/CD pipelines and DevOps-aligned quality practices • Identify, manage, and escalate test-related risks proactively Essential Skills & Experience • Strong experience in Test Management and/or Test Architecture roles • Strong backend and frontend testing experience • Proven test automation framework design and maintenance • API and system integration testing experience • Performance and security testing using tools such as JMeter, LoadRunner, OWASP ZAP, and Burp Suite • CI/CD and DevOps experience (Jenkins, GitLab CI, Azure DevOps, Docker, Kubernetes) • Experience working in secure or regulated environments • Cloud exposure (AWS, Azure, or GCP) Security clearance requirement (Applicants must already hold): • SC Clearance (Mandatory) • NPPV3 Clearance (Mandatory) • Candidates must already hold required clearances InspiredXpert is a specialist IT Talent Solutions company providing high-quality contract or perm talent across software development, cloud, AI, cybersecurity, and data-driven roles. We connect skilled professionals with innovative companies, offering exciting opportunities to work on impactful projects across the globe.