Automation Testing & Commissioning Manager - Logistics

Working at the heart of major automation programmes, the successful candidate will help de-risk significant investments, support smooth operational ramp-up and make sure every solution delivers for colleagues, customers and the business. It is a chance to make a real impact on some of the most advanced engineering and automation projects in M&S.

The ideal candidate will bring experience of delivering testing and commissioning programmes for automated solutions within logistics, retail, manufacturing or distribution environments. With strong technical knowledge of automation systems, WCS, WMS and material handling equipment, they will be confident validating system performance, solving problems and working collaboratively with stakeholders to support successful delivery across the UK and internationally.

NB The role will be based from one of our Logistics hubs (Bradford, Castle Donington or Welham Green) but most of the time will be spent working in partnership with our 3PL’s on sites across the country so the successful candidate must be prepared to travel.

Your key accountabilities will include:

• Lead end-to-end testing and commissioning activities for logistics automation solutions, ensuring systems are fully validated against operational, technical and business requirements.
• Develop and execute comprehensive test strategies, plans and acceptance criteria, covering automation controls, system functionality, integrations, throughput performance and operational processes.
• Drive Test on Completion (TOC) and operational readiness activities, analysing testing evidence and providing clear recommendations on solution performance and go-live readiness.
• Collaborate with suppliers, technology teams and operational stakeholders to identify, manage and resolve defects, ensuring successful implementation, commissioning and stabilisation of automated solutions.
• Champion testing excellence and continuous improvement, maintaining governance standards, enhancing testing methodologies and capturing lessons learned to improve future automation deployments.

Your skills and experience will include:

• Previous experience delivering testing, validation and commissioning programmes for automated solutions and material handling systems within complex operational environments.
• Strong understanding of Warehouse Control Systems (WCS), Warehouse Management Systems (WMS), automation control platforms and material handling technologies.
• Highly analytical with the ability to interpret performance data, validate throughput requirements and resolve complex technical and operational issues.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across suppliers, technology teams and operational stakeholders.
• Continuous Improvement Mindset – Passionate about driving innovation, improving processes and delivering operational excellence, with a proactive and results-focused approach to problem solving.

What’s in it for you:

• 20% colleague discount on all M&S products and many third-party brands for you and someone in your household, available once you’ve completed your probation.
• Competitive holiday allowance with the option to buy more.
• Discretionary bonus schemes linked to your performance and ours.
• Strong pension and life assurance to help plan for the future.
• Tailored induction and training to support your development from day one.
• Exclusive perks and savings through our M&S Choices portal.
• Market-leading family policies, including parental, adoption and neonatal leave.
• 24/7 wellbeing support, including virtual GP access and mental health services.
• One paid volunteer day a year to support a cause that matters to you.

Everyone’s welcome. M&S is ready to push boundaries to lead the retail industry into a greener, speedier, more inspiring digital era. That’s why we’re revolutionising how we work and offering our most exciting opportunities yet. There’s never been a better time to be part of our team. Marks & Spencer aims to be an inclusive organisation, trusted and admired by our colleagues, customers and suppliers. Join us and make an immediate impact.

We are committed to an active Inclusion, Diversity and Equal Opportunities Policy, which starts with our recruitment and selection process, and we are happy to talk flexible working. If you consider yourself to require reasonable adjustments to any part of our recruitment process, we invite you to share those requirements with us when completing your application. We will make every effort to ensure your needs are met to provide a fair and transparent process of assessment.