Applications Analyst and Test Lead

Robert Walters UK; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A global manufacturing business in Manchester seeks an Applications Analyst & Test Lead to manage and optimize a crucial application landscape. This hybrid role includes responsibilities for the full application lifecycle, leading testing activities, and ensuring application quality. Candidates need a strong understanding of application management and proven ability in testing within ERP environments. The position offers a competitive salary of up to £55,000, with additional perks such as a car allowance and a bonus.

Benefits

Car allowance

12.5% bonus

Pension contribution

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of application lifecycle management and governance.
• Broad knowledge of application architecture and methodologies.
• Experience with ERP testing in integrated landscapes.
• Hands-on experience with test automation tools.

Responsibilities

• Manage and optimize the global application landscape.
• Lead end-to-end testing activities for integrated applications.
• Support design and governance of application lifecycles.
• Provide day-to-day support for applications.

Skills

Application lifecycle management

Application architecture

ERP testing

Agile methodologies

Test automation tools

Vendor management

Problem-solving

Strong communication

Collaboration

Self-motivation

Job description

My client, a global manufacturing business, is looking for a skilled Applications Analyst & Test Lead to join their dynamic team and play a key role in managing and optimising a global application landscape. Manchester (Hybrid) – up to £55,000 per annum + £5.5K car allowance, 12.5% bonus, up to 10% pension contribution and various other benefits

Applications Analyst & Test Lead
Location: Manchester, UK (Hybrid Working)

Are you an experienced Applications Analyst with a passion for test management? Do you thrive in a dynamic, global environment where your expertise can make a real impact? If so, we have an exciting opportunity for you!

We are seeking a skilled Applications Analyst & Test Lead to join my client’s Global IT team. In this pivotal role, you will take ownership of the full application lifecycle across a diverse and business‑critical application landscape. From onboarding and integration to upgrades and decommissioning, you’ll ensure applications are optimised to meet the needs of the organisation. Additionally, you’ll lead testing activities for their global suite of applications and other integrated systems, ensuring quality and stability across key projects and initiatives.

This is a specialist role that requires hands‑on expertise in both application management and test processes. You’ll work closely with cross‑functional teams, stakeholders and vendors across multiple regions, making this an excellent opportunity to showcase your technical skills and collaborative approach.

Key Responsibilities

Applications Management

• Provide day‑to‑day support for applications, including troubleshooting and vendor coordination.
• Maintain the global applications catalogue, tracking licences, certificates, renewals, and dependencies.
• Support the design and governance of application lifecycles, including upgrades and decommissioning.
• Shape business requirements for new applications or changes while ensuring compliance with global standards.
• Facilitate onboarding and integration of new applications.
• Maintain documentation and support change management processes.

Test Management

• Lead end‑to‑end testing activities for integrated applications across projects and major change initiatives.
• Develop and execute comprehensive test strategies, plans, cases, and scripts based on business requirements.
• Coordinate User Acceptance Testing (UAT) with stakeholders and provide progress reports.
• Manage defect resolution throughout the testing lifecycle.
• Refine methodologies, processes, and templates for test management to ensure consistent quality assurance standards.

What They’re Looking For

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong understanding of application lifecycle management, support, and governance.
• Broad knowledge of application architecture and methodologies.
• Experience with ERP testing (preferred) within integrated landscapes.
• Familiarity with project management methodologies such as Agile or Waterfall.
• Hands‑on experience with test automation tools and test management platforms.
• Proven ability to manage vendors and stakeholders in a global matrixed organisation.
• Proactive problem‑solver who thrives under pressure while maintaining attention to detail.
• Strong communicator capable of presenting complex information clearly to non‑technical audiences.
• Collaborative team player who builds strong relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
• Self‑motivated individual who can prioritise effectively in a fast‑paced environment.

Why Join?

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of their global IT landscape while working in a supportive and forward‑thinking environment. You’ll have the chance to work on impactful projects across multiple regions while developing your skills in both applications analysis and test management.

If you’re ready to take on this challenge and make a difference in a global organisation, we’d love to hear from you!

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates. You will be working with the contract & project roles that are a strong fit for your skillset and the job will be matched accordingly.

About the job

Contract Type: Permanent

Focus: IT Support

Workplace Type: Hybrid

Experience Level: Mid Management

Location: Manchester

Specialism: Technology & Digital

Industry: IT

Salary: £40,000 – £55,000 per annum + £5.5K car allowance, 12.5% bonus

Job Reference: 26COHV-86F14748

Date posted: 26 November 2025

Consultant: Danielle Rosa