Lead Test Analyst

We're looking for an experienced and driven Lead Test Analyst to join our IT & Change function. This is a fantastic opportunity to take a leading role in delivering high-quality software solutions, while mentoring others and shaping the future of testing within a collaborative and forward-thinking environment.

As a key member of the team, you'll lead testing activities across the Software Testing Lifecycle (STLC), ensuring applications meet business and technical requirements before release. You'll also act as a deputy to the Head of Test, influencing delivery decisions and representing the testing function across projects.

What You'll Be Doing

In this role, you'll balance hands-on testing with leadership and strategic input:

• Lead and execute functional and non-functional testing across projects
• Deputise for the Head of Test and represent the testing function in key forums
• Own and develop the Leapwork automation framework, driving wider adoption of automation
• Build, maintain and optimise manual and automated regression test suites
• Support and mentor test team members, including onboarding and training
• Contribute to test planning, estimation, and strategy
• Engage with senior stakeholders to influence delivery decisions
• Coordinate UAT sessions and business show-and-tells
• Manage defects end-to-end and support issue resolution
• Ensure best practice, governance and standards are consistently applied
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams across IT, Change and the wider business
• ·Contribute to continuous improvement of testing processes and frameworks

We're seeking someone who combines strong technical testing knowledge with leadership skills:

Essential:

• Proven experience across the Software Testing Lifecycle (STLC)
• Experience contributing to test strategy and planning
• Hands-on experience with automation testing (preferably no/low-code tools like Leapwork)
• Experience testing Salesforce platforms
• Strong stakeholder management skills, including senior stakeholders
• Knowledge of Agile and Waterfall delivery methodologies
• Excellent communication and analytical skills
• Ability to mentor and support others within a team environment

Desirable:

• ISTQB Advanced and/or Automation certification
• Experience working on large transformation programmes
• Experience working with third-party suppliers
• Previous leadership or mentoring responsibility in a testing team
• Understanding of project management best practices, * Strong leadership and mentoring capability
• Strategic thinker with hands-on technical expertise
• Adaptable and able to manage changing priorities
• Collaborative team player with a proactive mindset
• Confident communicator (written and verbal)

• 26 days holidays per year plus bank holidays with the?option?to buy 3 days with your Annual Flex Pot*

• Annual Flex Pot* to spend on benefits including?additional?pension,?additional?holidays,?additional?critical illness cover,?additional?life cover, cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership

• Health cash plan*?(Access to claim back?numerous?benefits, including towards dental treatment, optical, chiropody, physiotherapy, counselling,?health?and wellbeing)

• Critical illness and income protection insurance*

• Enhanced Maternity and Paternity Pay

• Access to an employee?assistance?programme and mental health first aiders

• Group Personal Pension (GPP)

*Applicable on completion of probationary period and subject to terms

You'll be part of a supportive, innovative team where your expertise will directly influence the quality and success of key systems and services. We're passionate about continuous improvement, investing in our people, and delivering real value to the business. Since 1974, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has been the trusted voice of millions of small businesses and self-employed individuals across the UK. We are dedicated to helping our members start, run, and grow their businesses with confidence. Through expert advice, market-leading benefits, and tailored local support, we empower entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. We also champion the interests of small businesses by campaigning on the issues that matter most ensuring their voices are heard where it counts and driving positive change across the business landscape. All applicants must be able to provide at interview stage their highest education certificates as listed on their CV and verification of their eligibility to work in the UK. As an equal opportunities employer, FSB is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and does not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership. We believe there is a strong case for the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion agenda and aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace, where all employees can bring their whole self to work. We strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a range of backgrounds to apply and join FSB. Candidates with a disability who require reasonable adjustments should contact the HR department.