Contract - Test Manager - Wellington

Position Purpose

The Manager, Testing Services is responsible for leading the strategy, planning, and delivery of testing and quality assurance services across digital systems and projects. This includes end-to-end test planning, execution, automation, and quality oversight to ensure successful and risk-managed technology outcomes. The role works closely with stakeholders across ICT and business teams to embed quality throughout the solution lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy & Planning

• Define and maintain test strategies, frameworks, and automation practices aligned with organisational priorities
• Contribute to policy and continuous improvement of testing standards and assurance processes

Team & Capability Leadership

• Lead, coach, and develop a high-performing testing team
• Build internal capability to support evolving technologies and delivery models (e.g. DevOps, Agile, Waterfall)

Stakeholder Engagement

• Provide expert advice on testing, tools, methods, and quality risk
• Communicate test outcomes and risks to technical and business stakeholders

Technical & Project Delivery

• Plan and oversee all test phases, from requirements validation to user acceptance
• Apply appropriate tools, standards, and automation to improve test efficiency and coverage
• Manage vendor relationships and ensure testing aligns with organisational delivery frameworks

Service Assurance

• Support delivery of robust, operationally-ready digital services through structured test assurance
• Lead compliance assessments and contribute to supplier evaluations and recommendations

Health, Safety & Wellbeing

• Model and ensure safe practices in all team activities and contribute to organisational wellbeing efforts

Skills, Experience & Attributes

Essential

• ISTQB Foundation Certification or equivalent experience
• Extensive experience in managing enterprise testing services
• Proficiency across testing methodologies, automation, and tools
• Strong team leadership, coaching, and communication skills
• Experience in project management and vendor coordination
• Strong analytical, decision-making, and stakeholder engagement abilities

Desirable

• ISTQB Advanced Test Manager Certification
• Tertiary qualification in IT, Computer Science, or related field

Attributes

• Strategic thinker with hands-on delivery capability
• Adaptable, collaborative, and outcome-focused
• Skilled in managing competing priorities with a calm, solutions-driven approach