Head of QA Transformation

Matchtech Group; Southampton; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Matchtech Group is representing a major retail organisation in the UK seeking a Head of QA Transformation on a contract basis. The role will shape QA governance, standards and the overall quality culture across large technology programmes and engage with senior leaders.

You will drive the adoption of modern quality engineering practices, partner with an external consultancy for technical delivery, and build a high‑performing QA function that delivers measurable improvements across the

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading QA or Test Transformation programmes within large organisations.
• Strong knowledge of QA governance, frameworks, standards and operating models.
• Experience managing third‑party suppliers or outsourced testing providers.
• Proven track record delivering organisational change and cultural transformation.
• Exceptional stakeholder management, influencing and relationship‑building skills.

Responsibilities

• Define and implement the organisation's QA transformation strategy.
• Establish QA governance, standards, frameworks and operating models across multiple programmes.
• Ensure effective Quality Assurance processes are embedded throughout technology delivery.
• Act as the key liaison between internal stakeholders and third‑party delivery partners, monitoring and challenging service delivery against agreed outcomes.
• Drive cultural and behavioural change to promote quality‑first thinking and support the transition towards modern quality engineering practices.
• Lead, coach and develop a small internal QA team.
• Build trusted relationships with senior business and technology stakeholders, influencing decision‑making at executive and programme leadership level.
• Introduce meaningful quality metrics, reporting and continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

QA Transformation Leadership

QA Governance

Stakeholder Management

Third-Party Management

Quality Engineering

Change Management

Job description

Our client, a major retail organisation undergoing a significant technology and business transformation, is seeking a Head of QA Transformation for a contract opportunity. This highly visible leadership role will shape the evolution of Quality Assurance across the organisation, driving quality culture, governance, standards and best practice across large-scale technology programmes.

Working closely with an external consultancy partner responsible for technical delivery, you will ensure robust QA processes, effective service delivery and the successful adoption of new ways of working. The role offers the opportunity to influence senior leadership, develop a long‑term QA strategy and contribute to a major transformation programme with lasting business impact.

Key Responsibilities:

• Define and implement the organisation's QA transformation strategy.
• Establish QA governance, standards, frameworks and operating models across multiple programmes.
• Ensure effective Quality Assurance processes are embedded throughout technology delivery.
• Act as the key liaison between internal stakeholders and third‑party delivery partners, monitoring and challenging service delivery against agreed outcomes.
• Drive cultural and behavioural change to promote quality‑first thinking and support the transition towards modern quality engineering practices.
• Lead, coach and develop a small internal QA team.
• Build trusted relationships with senior business and technology stakeholders, influencing decision‑making at executive and programme leadership level.
• Introduce meaningful quality metrics, reporting and continuous improvement initiatives.

Job Requirements:

• Proven experience leading QA or Test Transformation programmes within large, complex organisations.
• Strong knowledge of QA governance, frameworks, standards and operating models.
• Experience managing third‑party suppliers, consultancies or outsourced testing providers.
• Demonstrable success delivering organisational change and cultural transformation.
• Exceptional stakeholder management, influencing and relationship‑building skills.
• Experience working across both business and technology functions.
• Strong leadership skills, with the ability to develop and motivate teams.
• Excellent communication, presentation and strategic decision‑making abilities.

Experience within retail, eCommerce or other customer‑focused environments would be advantageous. An understanding of modern quality engineering practices, continuous improvement and technology transformation will also support success in this role.

What's on Offer:

• The opportunity to shape an enterprise‑wide QA transformation.
• Exposure to senior leadership and strategic decision‑making.
• Significant influence over culture, process and quality outcomes.
• Involvement in a major technology transformation programme with lasting business impact.