Test Lead

Role: Test Lead
Type: Contract (Outside IR35)
Location: Bedfordshire, UK (Remote hybrid with 1-2 days)
Duration: 2 months (Likely Extension)
Start: ASAP

Overview
We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Test Lead to join a large-scale digital transformation programme. This role will take ownership of the end-to-end testing strategy, ensuring quality is embedded across multiple Agile delivery teams and that solutions are thoroughly tested before release.
This is an excellent opportunity for a proactive Test Lead who enjoys remaining technically involved, leading by example, and working closely with delivery, engineering, and operational stakeholders to drive quality across complex systems and integrations.

Key Responsibilities

• Define, own, and deliver the overall test strategy across multiple Agile squads.
• Establish and maintain quality standards, acceptance criteria, and testing practices aligned to the programme's Definition of Done.
• Lead all phases of testing including functional, integration, regression, system, and end-to-end testing.
• Design and execute test scenarios covering complex business processes and critical user journeys.
• Ensure robust validation of offline-capable mobile and handheld applications, including synchronisation and data integrity following reconnection.
• Coordinate testing activities across teams and third-party suppliers.
• Work closely with the Test Automation Engineer to define and implement the automation testing approach.
• Oversee API, integration, and data validation testing across interconnected platforms.
• Manage and support User Acceptance Testing (UAT) with operational and frontline business users.
• Identify, track, and communicate testing risks, defects, quality metrics, and release readiness.
• Provide clear reporting and recommendations to project and programme stakeholders.

Essential Experience

• Proven experience as a Test Lead on large-scale Agile delivery programmes involving multiple teams.
• Strong hands-on testing background with the ability to design, execute, and review test scenarios.
• Experience testing mobile or handheld applications that operate offline and synchronise data when connectivity is restored.
• Strong API testing and system integration testing experience.
• Experience working within Azure environments and CI/CD delivery pipelines.
• Ability to manage testing activities across complex technology landscapes involving multiple stakeholders and third-party systems.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.

Desirable Experience

• Retail, hospitality, field operations, or customer-facing operational systems experience.
• Experience testing AI-powered search and intelligent search capabilities.
• Experience supporting the migration or replacement of legacy systems and platforms.
• Exposure to automated testing frameworks and test automation strategies.

What We're Looking For
We are looking for a practical, delivery-focused Test Lead who is comfortable rolling up their sleeves and getting involved in the testing activities, not just overseeing governance and reporting. The successful candidate will be proactive, collaborative, and capable of driving quality across a fast-paced Agile environment.

If you have a strong background in leading testing across complex Agile programmes and are looking for a long-term Outside IR35 contract opportunity, we'd love to hear from you.