QA Lead - SC Clearance

QA Lead - Core Modernisation Programme

Location: Telford - 1-2 days per week onsite
Contract: Immediate start until April 2027, likely extension to end 2027
Rate: Up to £630 to £650 per day all-inclusive - Inside IR35 / PAY

QA Lead - Core Modernisation Programme

HMRC | Tax Administration | Quality Assurance | Test Strategy | Governance

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced QA Lead to support a major modernisation programme within HMRC Core Business Platforms.

The successful candidate will lead the implementation of the programme-wide Quality Assurance (QA) strategy, providing technical leadership, governance and quality oversight across multiple projects and delivery streams. You will work closely with Project QA Leads, clients and senior stakeholders to ensure consistent testing standards, effective risk management and high-quality delivery throughout the programme lifecycle.

Key Responsibilities

Implement and maintain the CESA Futures Programme QA Strategy.

Lead QA governance, reporting and quality management across multiple project streams.

Work with clients and stakeholders to define QA scope, strategy and delivery approaches.

Guide and support Project QA Leads in delivering modernisation initiatives.

Ensure project-level test strategies, plans and approaches align with programme standards.

Establish processes for monitoring, measuring and reporting QA deliverables.

Review and assure test approach, planning and completion documentation.

Challenge testing approaches and outcomes to ensure compliance with programme principles.

Manage QA risks, identify mitigation strategies and support effective issue resolution.

Lead the development of QA processes, guidance, assessments and business cases.

Produce and maintain programme-level QA strategy, reporting and completion documentation.

Influence technical solution design, promoting effective design for testability.

Essential Skills and Experience

Extensive experience in Quality Assurance leadership and test strategy development.

Strong understanding of modern testing methodologies, QA frameworks and tools.

Proven experience establishing and governing QA standards across complex programmes.

Ability to influence technical design and promote testability throughout the development lifecycle.

Excellent leadership, stakeholder management and communication skills.

Strong risk management, mitigation and assurance capabilities.

Experience leading and supporting QA teams across multiple projects.

Proven ability to produce, review and manage programme-level QA documentation and deliverables.

Track record of delivering QA activities to agreed timescales and quality standards.

Strong understanding of industry best practice, quality benchmarks and continuous improvement.

Security Clearance

SC clearance is not essential but would be advantageous
Only candidates based in UK and eligible to work in UK are allowed