Test Manager in Milton Keynes

The QA Test Manager is responsible for ensuring the success and quality of the testing process so that products and services are of the highest possible quality for our customers. They design and execute test plans and carry out exploratory testing as part of a broader risk‑based approach.

Scope and Objectives

• Define the test strategy and lead its implementation ensuring that the test policy and processes meet ISO standards.
• Construction of a Test Solution and management of end‑to‑end testing based on Business and/or Operational requirements.
• Responsible for Test improvement and optimisation.
• Responsible for implementation and maintenance of any test management tooling.
• Engage with Business and/or Operational Stakeholders to gain agreement to the proposed test solution.
• Create test documentation to support the agreed test solution.
• Manage a team of testers with coaching and mentoring to ensure that all test solutions are successful and signed off by the end user.
• Manage all defects and liaise between Business and/or Operational Stakeholders and software developers to ensure the defect management reflects the Business and/or Operational priorities.
• Support the Go‑Live/Production deployment activities of the Business and/or Operational solution.
• Have expert technical understanding and provide advice to project teams.
• Engagement of Business and/or Operational Stakeholders to gain agreement to the proposed Test Solution.
• Design Test solution to encompass all, or some, of the following types of testing: Functional Testing, System Integration Testing, Non Functional Testing (such as Performance, Interface, Usability, Failover testing).
• Manage test estimations for the Programme/Project.
• Creation of a Test Schedule that feeds into the Main Project Plan/Schedule (or Operational Plan).
• Creation of a Test Traceability Matrix document to monitor test coverage and test progress.

Skills and Experience

• ISTQB Certified Tester Advanced Level Test Management (CTAL‑TM) v3.0 or equivalent test management certification or proven test management experience.
• Basic knowledge of SQL scripts used to interrogate databases.
• Knowledge of Cloud infrastructure setup (AWS and Azure).
• Awareness of Virtual Machine management tools (e.g., VMWare).
• Knowledge of test management tools.
• Awareness of non-functional testing techniques.
• Level 3 Information Communication Technician or equivalent level 3 qualification in IT, Computer Science or relevant experience.
• Experience of working in Tier 2 environments.
• Knowledge and practical experience in stress, load, soak and performance testing.
• Knowledge of continuous integration (CI) and continuous delivery (CD).
• Basic Networking knowledge (e.g., Cisco).
• Knowledge of test automation tool sets.

Submission Process

Suppliers should submit all CVs to FCDOServices.Recruitment@fcdo.gov.uk by 01/06/26. A maximum of 3 CVs per supplier are allowed to be submitted.

Contract Duration

The Call‑Off Contract will be for 6 Months. The maximum permitted duration of the Call‑Off Contract is 24 Months.

Location & Hybrid Working

This role has been identified as a hybrid working role with the contracted location as Hanslope Park (Milton Keynes, MK19 7BH). The role holder shall adhere to the Hybrid Working Policy and any changes.

Security Clearance/Vetting

Candidates submitted for this role must be British nationals, and be able to confirm: They are a British citizen and do not hold any other nationality. They have been a resident in the UK for at least two of the last five years. Due to the nature of this requirement, UK Government Security Clearance if not already held will need to be obtained. The security clearance required for this role is SC.

Notice Period

Seven (7) calendar days.

Professional Conduct

All staff matters must be conducted according to standard expectations and arrangements, with full consultation and agreement with FCDO Services HR.