QA & Automation Test Lead

testability.Act as the key quality representative across Engineering and Product teams.Test Automation & DeliveryLead the design and implementation of automated testing frameworks.Define testing strategies covering functional, integration, API, end-to-end and non-functional testing.Improve regression coverage and maintainability of automation suites.Integrate automated testing into CI/CD pipelines.Support hands-on testing activities where required.Reporting & Continuous ImprovementDevelop quality metrics and meaningful QA reporting.Monitor defect trends, release quality and testing effectiveness.Identify opportunities to improve tooling, processes and delivery practices.Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the QA function.AI & InnovationExplore practical applications of AI within software testing.Evaluate tools that improve automation, productivity and test coverage.Encourage experimentation with AI-assisted testing approaches.Stay up to date with emerging QA technologies and

industry trends.CollaborationWork closely with Product Managers, Software Engineers, Business Analysts and stakeholders.Promote a quality-first culture throughout the software development lifecycle.Communicate testing progress, quality risks and release readiness effectively.Support User Acceptance Testing where appropriate.Essential ExperienceProven experience leading a QA team.Demonstrated success transitioning organisations from manual to automated testing.Strong experience designing and maintaining automated test frameworks.Experience defining QA strategies for complex software products.Strong understanding of Agile development methodologies.Experience with API, integration, regression and end-to-end testing.Knowledge of CI/CD pipelines and DevOps practices.Excellent analytical, communication and stakeholder management skills.Ability to balance quality, delivery timelines and commercial priorities.Desirable ExperienceExperience within financial services, fintech or another regulated industry.Knowledge of trading systems, electronic markets or complex financial platforms.Experience with Playwright, Cypress, Selenium or similar automation tools.Exposure to AI-assisted software testing solutions.Performance, resilience or security testing experience.Previous experience within a scaling technology business.For more information on this role, apply now!Location:Newcastle upon TyneTyne and WearNewcastle upon TyneNE12 8BXSalary:60000 - 80000Sector:Testing Type:PermanentPosted:08/17/2026

Our client is a well-established business operating within the financial services sector, providing innovative technology solutions to support complex financial operations. They are committed to delivering high-quality software and continuously investing in automation, modern engineering practices and product innovation.The OpportunityThey are looking for an experienced QA & Automation Team Lead to lead their Quality Assurance function and drive the evolution from predominantly manual testing to a modern, automation-first approach.This is a hands-on leadership role, ideal for someone who has successfully transformed QA teams, implemented automation strategies and enjoys improving software quality through scalable processes and technology.You’ll lead a team of QA Engineers while remaining technically involved, helping shape testing frameworks, embedding quality into development workflows and championing continuous improvement across the engineering function.What They’re Looking