Test Lead

TL;DR

Test Lead (QA Automation): Lead strategic functional, performance, and automated testing across complex systems with an accent on end-to-end validation of data pipelines, source-to-target mapping, and data integrity. Focus on building and evolving automation frameworks, managing test planning/execution/reporting, and improving CI/CD test environments while mentoring engineers.

Location: London, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle upon Tyne, Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Company

Version 1 is a technology services provider delivering digital-first solutions for global brands.

What you will do

• Plan and lead large-scale, complex testing activities, managing risks and improving quality and efficiency.
• Build, maintain, and evolve automation frameworks using open-source tools.
• Design and execute functional, performance, and automated testing, including end-to-end data pipeline validation.
• Oversee test planning, execution, and reporting aligned with the test strategy; manage the defect lifecycle.
• Perform database and ETL testing to ensure data accuracy, reliability, and integrity.
• Communicate test results and insights to technical and non-technical stakeholders; mentor other engineers.

Requirements

• Proven experience leading testing teams and strategic testing initiatives.
• Hands-on experience with automation frameworks such as Selenium, Playwright, or Cypress.
• Experience with Virtuoso (or a similar tool) for test automation.
• Strong understanding of CI/CD pipelines and test environment management.
• Experience in Agile and DevOps environments.
• Expertise in database and ETL testing; strong communication and leadership skills.

Nice to have

• SC eligible preferred.

Culture & Benefits

• Flexible/remote working with support for work-life balance.
• Quarterly performance-related profit share scheme.
• Career progression, mentorship coaching, and quarterly pathways career development programme.
• Private healthcare, pension, life assurance, financial advice, and employee discount scheme.
• Generous holiday allowance and enhanced parental leave policies.
• Educational assistance and incentivised certifications (AWS, Microsoft, Oracle, Red Hat).