Automation Test Lead

Our client is seeking a highly skilled Automation Test Lead to oversee test activities across multiple projects within a dynamic and fast-paced environment. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping and executing the automation testing strategy, ensuring alignment with both Agile and Waterfall delivery methodologies. This role requires a hands-on leader with a strong technical foundation, exceptional coordination skills, and a passion for driving quality through automation.

Key Responsibilities & Outcomes

• Act as a senior member of the Test Function, coordinating testing across several concurrent projects under the PMO.
• Partner with the Test Manager to support governance, reporting, and continuous improvement within the QA function.
• Define, document, and implement the most appropriate automation strategy for each project.
• Champion an “automation-first” mindset across all testing deliverables.
• Collaborate effectively with both Automation and Functional Test Teams to ensure seamless integration and delivery.
• Evaluate and recommend appropriate test automation tools, ensuring scalability and compatibility across environments.
• Design and establish robust UI and API automation frameworks to support efficient and reliable testing.
• Plan and allocate workloads across multiple projects, define milestones, and track progress against delivery targets.
• Work closely with project and delivery teams, adapting to Waterfall, Agile, or hybrid methodologies as needed.
• Contribute to estimation activities and overall test planning.
• Produce regular progress reports and escalate risks or issues to the Test Manager in a timely manner.
• Motivate and guide distributed test teams to meet tight deadlines without compromising quality.
• Collaborate with Quality and Compliance teams to maintain CSV standards and ensure proper documentation of evidence.
• Prepare and present weekly portfolio test reports to key stakeholders.
• Contribute to defining and maintaining standards for scripting, execution, and regression testing.
• Partner with the Functional Test Lead to align efforts during crossover phases such as regression testing.
• Promote collaboration and effective communication between teams and stakeholders at all levels.
• Provide hands-on assistance with scripting and execution during peak delivery periods.
• Advocate for continuous improvement by identifying opportunities for process and tooling enhancements.
• Demonstrate a proactive, delivery-focused, and quality-driven approach in all aspects of the role.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related discipline (or equivalent work experience).
• 6+ years of experience as an Automation Test Lead within complex, enterprise-scale technology projects.
• Proven success coordinating multiple test teams to meet project deliverables and quality standards.
• Strong understanding of SDLC, STLC, and both Agile and Waterfall delivery methodologies.
• 7+ years of hands-on experience writing automation scripts in C#.
• 4+ years of experience testing REST APIs.
• Proficiency in BDD/ATDD environments, including creating acceptance tests in parallel with development.
• Experience with source control, CI/CD pipelines, and Azure DevOps.
• Experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 is advantageous.
• ISTQB certification or equivalent QA qualification preferred.
• Background in diverse technology landscapes, such as ERP, WMS, CRM, eCommerce, digital platforms, mobile applications, HRIS, or SAP.
• Prior exposure to CSV or GxP-regulated environments, or equivalent experience in ISO/finance standards.
• Strong knowledge of test automation principles and non-functional testing.
• Proven ability to mentor and upskill test engineers, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and collaboration.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills.