Software IT Test Manager

Crooton; Bristol; Hybrid; GBP 48,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A key player in GovTech is seeking a Software IT Test Manager to oversee the quality of systems that safeguard the UK’s critical national infrastructure. You will lead a shift towards modern testing practices with a dynamic team while benefiting from a competitive pension scheme and a hybrid work environment. Ideal candidates bring ISTQB certifications and experience in test automation and leadership. Join us to manage a legacy in property ownership transformation.

Benefits

28.97% employer pension contribution

Flexible working hours

Stability within the Civil Service

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with all levels of testing from Unit to OAT.
• Proven experience leading digital test teams.
• Ability to influence test strategies and manage risk.

Responsibilities

• Oversee quality in the software development lifecycle.
• Drive automation and upskill team in testing practices.
• Advise stakeholders on complex issues.

Skills

ISTQB Foundation

Test automation

Leadership

Risk management

Education

ISTQB Advanced Test Manager or equivalent

Job description

Software IT Test Manager – Hybrid (Plymouth)

Location: Plymouth, Devon (Hybrid – 60% Office Based)

Salary: Circa £59,300 + 28.97% Pension Contribution (£18k+ employer contribution!)

Contract: Permanent | Full-Time or Part-Time (Min 30 hours)

Sector: GovTech / Critical National Infrastructure

The closing date is Sunday, 22nd February 2026 at 11:55 pm

Testing at a National Scale. Impact on a Global Level.

Are you ready to oversee the quality of systems that safeguard £8 trillion in property value?

HM Land Registry (HMLR) is undergoing a massive digital transformation. We aren't just updating software; we are building the world’s leading land registry. As our new Software IT Test Manager, you won’t just be "checking code"—you’ll be the gatekeeper for the UK’s critical national infrastructure.

The Package: Why This Role is Different

We offer one of the most competitive benefits packages in the UK tech sector:

• Base Salary: Circa £48,400 - £59,300 depending on experience
• Unrivalled Pension: A whopping 28.97% employer contribution (approx. £18,796 extra per year).
• Work-Life Balance: Hybrid working (60% in our Plymouth office) with flexible full-time or part-time options (from 30 hours p/w).
• Stability: A key role within the Civil Service on a major, multi-year transformation programme.

The Role: Leading the Quality Agenda

You will be the expert voice for testing at the project level, ensuring quality is baked into the software development lifecycle from day one.

Your Impact:

• Strategy & Leadership: Influence test strategies, manage risk mitigation, and oversee multiple workstreams.
• Automation: Drive the automation agenda and upskill your team in modern testing practices.
• Innovation: Use quality metrics to monitor progress and maintain world-class standards.
• Collaboration: Provide expert advice on complex issues to stakeholders across the digital department.

What You’ll Bring to the Team

• Certification: ISTQB Foundation (Required) + ISTQB Advanced Test Manager OR equivalent proven experience leading digital test teams.
• Technical Depth: Hands-on experience across all levels of testing (from Unit to OAT) and a strong grasp of test automation.
• Leadership: A track record of managing people and stakeholders through complex technical changes.
• Commitment: Ability to travel occasionally and support live assurance testing (some weekend work required).

Culture & Growth

You’ll join a dynamic, supportive environment where innovation isn’t just a buzzword—it’s how we protect the UK’s property market. You will have the autonomy to shape testing processes and the support to grow your career within the Civil Service.

Ready to shape the future of property ownership?

Don’t just manage tests—manage a legacy.

Click 'Apply Now' to start your application