At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead testing strategy for a major tech transformation in financial services.
- Company: Join a European Financial Services Organisation focused on modernisation.
- Benefits: Fully remote work with long-term career opportunities until 2028.
- Other info: Work with global teams and influence high-profile stakeholders.
- Why this job: Be a key player in migrating legacy systems to modern technology.
- Qualifications: Experience in leading testing strategies and managing complex projects.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
For our customer, a European Financial Services Organisation, we are seeking a Test Manager to assist in a key board-sponsored project Programme Test Strategy Lead – Mainframe Modernisation.
Location: Fully remote - Duration: Long-Term Programme Through 2028
Industry: Financial Services
The Opportunity
We are seeking an experienced Test Strategy Lead to join one of the most significant technology transformation programmes within the organisation. This board-sponsored initiative is focused on the migration of a legacy mainframe estate to a modern technology stack and carries substantial business and operational importance as it holds Client Reference and Market Data. The programme is entering a critical phase following approval for its next stage, transitioning core business functionality from legacy platforms into modern relational data models and distributed applications. The transformation is expected to continue through multiple delivery phases before go-live and operational handover in 2028.
Key Responsibilities
- Define, challenge and enhance the overall programme testing strategy.
- Establish a robust testing framework for a large-scale mainframe modernisation environment.
- Lead testing governance across complex streams involving rewritten code, converted applications and evolving business requirements.
- Work closely with programme leadership, engineering teams, operations and delivery partners to drive testing quality and risk mitigation.
- Identify gaps, dependencies and testing challenges across the transformation lifecycle.
- Provide expert guidance on test planning, execution, automation and quality assurance best practices.
- Ensure testing activities support programme milestones and non-negotiable delivery deadlines.
Required Experience
- Proven experience leading testing strategy on large-scale transformation or migration programmes.
- Strong background delivering testing within complex enterprise environments.
- Experience with mainframe modernisation, legacy system replacement or platform migration initiatives.
- Deep understanding of test governance, test management and quality assurance frameworks.
- Ability to influence senior stakeholders and operate effectively in high-profile, business-critical programmes.
- Experience working within globally distributed delivery teams and managing third-party vendors.
- Strong leadership, communication and decision-making skills.
Desirable Technical Background
- Mainframe technologies (IBM z/OS, Assembler, COBOL or equivalent).
- Modern application architectures using Java and SQL-based platforms.
- Experience supporting code conversion and system migration programmes.
- Test automation, performance testing and large-scale integration testing expertise.
What Success Looks Like
This role requires a confident and resilient leader who can provide clear direction, challenge existing approaches where necessary and bring structure to a highly complex delivery environment. You will be the senior testing authority within a programme that has significant executive visibility and firm delivery deadlines, helping ensure a successful migration from legacy technology to the future-state platform.
By applying for this role, you consent to SGI contacting you by telephone regarding recruitment services, market updates, and relevant business opportunities. We believe in equal opportunity for all and actively encourage applications from diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Source Group International Ltd is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.
Market Data Test Manager- OUTSIDE IR35 in London employer: SGI
Join a leading investment manager in London, where you will have the opportunity to take ownership of building and enhancing cutting-edge trading systems from the ground up. With a strong focus on collaboration across trading, investment, and technology teams, this role offers a dynamic work culture that values innovation and professional growth. Enjoy the benefits of hybrid working while contributing to impactful projects that shape the future of FX and investment technology.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Market Data Test Manager- OUTSIDE IR35 in London
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like SGI. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Market Data Test Manager- OUTSIDE IR35 in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to SGI.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on SGI's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at SGI
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with SGI.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at SGI will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former SGI employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
