Test and Release Manager (Warehouse & Distribution Systems)

We are recruiting for a Test and Release Manager, supporting our Warehouse & Distribution Systems.

As our new Test and Release Manager, you will play a crucial role in managing the test and release planning for our suite of applications. You will collaborate with stakeholders to develop and implement a robust testing and release process for both projects and day-to-day changes.

Your responsibilities will include overseeing the testing and deployment process, managing test plans, and leading the test team and automated testing tools. You will coordinate testing and bug fix activities across various teams, including suppliers, business analysts, support teams, and business users, while providing management, coaching, and leadership to test resources.

Our Warehouse and Distribution Systems team is a critical part of our Technology division, based in our office located in Colchester, Essex.

About Technology

Following the successful completion of our recent technology, data and process merger, our Technology division is charging ahead with our strategic plan to amplify the voices of our organisation. This includes leveraging the potential of Cloud solutions, continuously enhancing our security measures, revitalising legacy applications, and enhancing our interactions with strategic partners and suppliers. Our Technology Division spans across two vibrant office locations in London and Colchester, where approximately 200 colleagues are dedicated to empowering our mission – we make books for everyone, because a book can change anyone.

We are also on a journey to create a workplace that is truly inclusive, empowering and equitable for all. Our recent successes have seen a significant increase in our division’s engagement and sense of belonging. We are committed to fostering an environment where every voice is valued and every individual has the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. 

To find out more about our Technology team, please visit our careers site here.

Key Responsibilities:

Planning:

• Develop and manage a pipeline of delivery, testing, and deployment in collaboration with external suppliers and internal development teams.
• Coordinate upgrades, data refreshes, and transports with the SAP team to ensure alignment of environments.
• Identify, manage, and communicate risks and dependencies between releases.
• Collaborate with Project Managers to ensure go-live dates are communicated and coordinated with operational activities.
• Design and implement changes to test and release processes for applications affected by testing environment changes.

Testing:

• Coordinate UAT testing, consulting with end users to ensure requirements and timelines are understood.
• Manage delivery from internal teams and third-party vendors, resolving issues related to delivery and quality.
• Ensure rigorous QA processes are followed before code is handed over for UAT.
• Develop and maximize the potential of automation test tools for robust functional testing.
• Provide clear and accurate reporting on test coverage, defect impact, and risk assessment.

Release Management:

• Manage the release process for all deployments into test and production environments.
• Coordinate releases with project and development teams, ensuring a consistent process.
• Own and manage the release module in Service Now, working with the Service Management team to enhance its functionality.
• Ensure timely and effective communication for all deployments, chairing go/no-go meetings to present test results and release plans.
• Report on post-go-live issues and ensure resolution plans are in place.

 What You Will Bring

Essential criteria:

• Experience as a Test Manager or Lead with a history of improving testing processes.
• Proven track record in effectively testing business systems and applications.
• Previous experience in line management.
• Ability to serve as a point of contact with internal users, Technology teams, and suppliers.
• Ability to thrive in high-pressure, fast-paced environments.
• Understanding of various development methodologies.
• Proficiency in writing detailed test scripts and test plans.
• Knowledge of integration testing and collaboration with project teams and third parties.
• Experience with interface testing and cross-browser testing.
• Familiarity with testing tools such as Jira and Silk.

Preferred criteria:

• ITIL qualification.
• ISEB/ISTQB foundation level qualification.

Application instructions 

Please apply with your CV by 11:59pm on Monday 23rd June.

• Please note we are looking for someone to join the team as soon as possible, but we are also happy to accommodate a reasonable notice period for the right candidate.
• We anticipate a two-stage interview process which will include a virtual first-stage interview and in-person second stage interview. We are happy to discuss this further with you throughout the recruitment process.

Salary

£60,000 - £70,000 dependent on how your skills and experience align to the role, plus bonus and benefits.

What you can expect from us

Our people are the heart of our business, and we work hard to support a culture of responsibility and recognition.  

Hybrid working

While our offices across the UK are places to connect, collaborate and celebrate with colleagues, we recognise that flexibility around where you work is just as important.

Hybrid working is our current practise with time spent working from home or in our Colchester office. Time required in the office will vary depending on projects and collaborative working sessions, and we are happy to discuss this during the interview process.

Company: The Random House Group Limited 

Country: United Kingdom 

State/Region: Essex 

City: Frating 

Postal Code: CO7 7DW 

Job ID: 280472