Test Assurance Manager

About the team At the NMC, technology plays a vital role in helping us protect the public and support the professionals on our register. Our Digital and Technology teams deliver the systems and services that enable the organisation to operate effectively, safely and efficiently. As part of this, the Test and Assurance function provides independent quality assurance across a diverse portfolio of projects, applications and infrastructure changes. The team works closely with colleagues across the organisation and with external suppliers to ensure that technology solutions are robust, secure and fit for purpose before they are introduced into live environments. This is an exciting opportunity to lead and shape our testing capability, champion best practice and drive continuous improvement in how we assure quality across the organisation. Your role and impact As our Test and Assurance Manager, you will lead the development and implementation of testing strategies that support the successful delivery of organisational priorities and transformation initiatives. You'll provide leadership to a team of Test Analysts, creating an environment where people can thrive, develop and deliver high-quality outcomes. Working across multiple projects and programmes, you'll oversee all phases of testing, ensuring that risks are understood, quality standards are maintained and delivery remains on track. You'll be responsible for: Defining, implementing and continually improving the organisation's testing strategy and approach. Leading the planning, estimation and execution of testing activities across infrastructure and application projects. Managing test environments, test assets and repositories to ensure effective governance and control. Overseeing functional, automation, performance and non-functional testing activities, ensuring the right tools and techniques are used. Providing expert advice and guidance to colleagues, suppliers and stakeholders on all aspects of testing and quality assurance. Managing defect lifecycles and ensuring testing outcomes are transparent, evidence-based and clearly reported. Building strong relationships with business stakeholders, developers, analysts and subject matter experts to enable collaborative delivery. Acting as a member of the Change Advisory Board, ensuring that appropriate testing has been completed before changes are approved for release. Leading, coaching and developing a high-performing team, promoting a culture of learning, accountability and continuous improvement. The role offers the opportunity to make a significant contribution to how the NMC delivers change, helping us reduce risk, improve customer experience and ensure the quality of the services we provide. What you'll bring We're looking for an experienced testing professional who combines technical expertise with strong leadership and a passion for delivering results. You'll bring: Significant experience leading testing activity across complex programmes and projects delivered through Agile, Waterfall or hybrid approaches. Experience of managing and developing teams, including coaching, mentoring, workload planning and performance management. Strong knowledge of software testing methodologies, including functional and non-functional testing, test planning, defect management and quality assurance practices. Experience managing test environments and working within outsourced or multi-supplier delivery environments. Expertise in the use of test management, automation and performance testing tools, with experience of both manual and automated testing approaches. The ability to analyse complex information, assess risk and make sound decisions in fast-paced environments. Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, with the confidence to influence and build credibility at all levels. A commitment to continuous improvement and creating opportunities for others to learn and develop. You will thrive in this role if you take pride in delivering results, enjoy solving complex problems, communicate with impact and are passionate about helping others succeed. If you're motivated by improving quality, enabling successful change and making a meaningful difference through your work, we'd love to hear from you. Salary Details London - £58,022-£64,469 Edinburgh - £54,098-£60,109