Test Manager

AQA; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 63,866 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 days' annual leave, rising to 30 with service

Contributory pension scheme

Life assurance

Health cash plan

Enhanced maternity and paternity schemes

Access to professional development

Job summary

A leading education assessment organization in Manchester is seeking a Test Manager to shape its software testing practices. The role involves overseeing functional and non-functional testing, driving continuous improvement, and collaborating with stakeholders to deliver high-quality software solutions. Successful candidates will have significant experience in agile methodology, testing team leadership, and strong communication skills. This position offers a hybrid work model with a competitive salary between £63,866 and £72,000, alongside extensive benefits including annual leave that increases with service.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in leading functional and non‑functional testing teams, including automation.
• Strong understanding of agile software development lifecycle and testing methodologies.
• Proven ability to manage, mentor and develop technical teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all test activities across functional, non‑functional, automated and manual testing.
• Drive continuous improvement in testing processes and tools aligned to agile principles.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders and ensure timely, high‑quality delivery of software solutions.

Skills

Leading functional and non-functional testing teams

Agile software development lifecycle

Communication and stakeholder management

Tools

JIRA

MTM

TFS

Job description

Join to apply for the Test Manager role at AQA.

This range is provided by AQA. Your actual pay will be based on your skills and experience — talk with your recruiter to learn more.

Base pay range

Permanent. Hybrid – 2 days a week in the office. Salary: £63,866 – £72,000.

Introduction

You'll play a key role in shaping how AQA delivers high‑quality software solutions. This is an opportunity to lead testing practices that make a real impact on learners and education. You'll be at the forefront of shaping AQA's approach to software testing, ensuring that every solution we deliver meets the highest standards of quality and reliability. This role offers the chance to influence strategic decisions, collaborate with talented teams, and make a tangible impact on education outcomes across the UK.

Purpose of the role

You'll ensure predictable and successful delivery of software for AQA's key operational systems. Your leadership will drive best‑in‑class testing practices, supporting AQA's transition to cloud technologies and agile delivery models. You'll lead initiatives that enhance AQA's technology landscape, championing agile practices and automation‑first approaches. By driving innovation and continuous improvement, you'll help us deliver solutions that empower learners and educators, while positioning AQA as a leader in digital transformation.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage all test activities across functional, non‑functional, automated and manual testing.
• Drive continuous improvement in testing processes and tools aligned to agile principles.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders and ensure timely, high‑quality delivery of software solutions.

What we are looking for

• Significant experience in leading functional and non‑functional testing teams, including automation.
• Strong understanding of agile software development lifecycle and testing methodologies.
• Proven ability to manage, mentor and develop technical teams.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience with tools such as JIRA, MTM, TFS or similar.

What's in it for you

• 25 days' annual leave, rising to 30 with service, plus bank holidays and extra closure days at Christmas.
• A 35‑hour working week with flexible working arrangements.
• An excellent contributory pension scheme (6%‑11.5% depending on your contribution).
• Life assurance, BUPA PMI, and health cash plan.
• Enhanced maternity and paternity schemes.
• Access to professional and personal development whenever you need it.

Diversity and inclusion

At AQA, we are committed to fostering a workplace that celebrates diversity and promotes equity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse team brings richer perspectives and drives better outcomes. Our ED&I strategy ensures that everyone – regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background – is valued, respected, and empowered to thrive. We actively promote inclusive language, avoid stereotypes, and strive for representation across all dimensions of diversity. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and lived experiences.

Application Process

To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter by Monday 12th January. First‑stage interviews will take place W/C 26th January.

Location

Manchester, England, United Kingdom

Seniority level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Information Technology

Industries

Technology, Information and Internet