Systems Operator Testing Services (SOTS) Test Lead

Reporting to SOTS Test Manager

Location National Grid

Key internal relationships · SOTS Test Manager(s)

· SOTS Senior Performance Tester

· SOTS Senior Test Automation Architect

· Project / Programme Managers

· NG SO Business & Operations

Key external relationships · Application / Service Suppliers

· Market Participants

· Market Settlement Providers

Role summary

To work with the Test Manager to lead the delivery of Testing phases documented and approved in the Test Strategy assuring quality and ensuring applications are delivered into a production environment that are well understood and fit for purpose.

Working with the National Grid Systems Operator Programme & Project delivery teams, selected application & service suppliers and National Grid SO businesses & operations teams the Test Lead will be responsible to lead, deliver, assure, govern and approve test phases including test creation & execution, defect management & resolution and test measurement & reporting.

Using appropriate testing tools and techniques which adhere to agreed NG SO Testing policy and standards, this role will ensure that new and modified software, together with interfaces; perform as specified and anticipated by the business requirements and functional specification documentation.

The Role

Principal Accountabilities

· Analyse testing projects, plan the creation and execution of test artefacts, manage test resources and provide test reporting

· Assure & endorse quality in line with SO Testing Services (SOTS) policies, processes and standards.

· Support SOTS Test and Project Managers to ensure all test phases are considered and performed as specified by the Business and Functional Requirements documentation

Principal responsibilities

· Lead Test analysts and where appropriate any test resources provided by the Business (UAT / OAT)

· Take full responsibility for the planning and management of all testing activities, evaluating risk potential based on the results of the testing during each test phase

· Provide project documentation to support the application quality gate processes; including End of Test Reports (EoTR) containing test results and exit and entry criteria recommendations

· Control the testing effort and publish daily / weekly testing reports required to manage the testing activities

· Manage the following test activities:

o The creation, review and execution of Test Scripts using the selected test repository

o Track, review and resolve defects using the selected test repository

o Be Responsible for sign off of allocated test tasks

· Operate as a specialist and consultant on all aspects of testing

· Maintain good knowledge of, advise on and justify SOTS processes

· Liaise with Programme / Project managers to manage expectations for the testing stages of projects

· Manage quality criteria and corrective action

· Control acceptance of applications from suppliers by providing assurance using agreed entry and exit test criteria

Contributes to:-

· The successful delivery of the quality assured NG SO applications

· Makes test asset efficiency a priority

· The success of NG SOTS delivering testing as a service which is consistent, reusable and measurable

· Offers utilities application test consultancy when and where required

The individual

Essential skills include

· 3+ years providing functional testing delivery

· Provide leadership for all aspects of testing functional & non-functional including defect management and resolution

· Ability to demonstrate an understanding of testing principles, methods, techniques and tools for the effective management of the testing process and the execution of tests throughout the testing lifecycle

· Able to lead a team of test analysts, ability to set tasks and assure quality of delivery

· Ability to deliver Project (test) planning and estimation

· Able to provide delivery on time with measures and acceptable quality

· Excellent communication and stakeholder managment skills.

· Constantly challenge self and inspire others to meet ambitious goals and deliver exceptional performance

· Be passionate about Testing and take responsibility for making us a highly regarded Service within NG SO

· Be as consumed with the success and development of the people you influence as you are with your own

· Focus on excellent execution

· Respect and promote the standards that are our licence to do business and find intelligent ways to apply them

· Ownership, initiative and positive approach ('can-do' attitude)

· Desire to 'champion' NG SOTS and work disciplines

· Enthusiast; determined to develop teams under the NG SOTS banner

· Consultative; keeping team, PMO, management and customers 'in the loop'

· Willing to be open, frank and honest with feedback

· Accepts change and manages the effects well

· Likes to develop individuals and to transfer knowledge widely

· Calm and decisive under pressure

Desirable skills include

· IS Delivery methodologies

· Test Phase Management

· Educational background in Maths, engineering or power systems

· Knowledge of working in a service delivery practice

Behaviours

Behaviours

FOCUS ON THE CUSTOMER

• Have a 'customer first' attitude

• Constantly seek ways to improve our service and wow the customer

• Understand that everything we do has an impact – direct or indirect – on the end customer

• Recognise how my role and the roles of others make a difference to the customer experience

• Build strong relationships with our customers

ACT AS ONE TEAM

• Have a genuine concern for others and a willingness to help

• Pull together to deliver results

• Consider the impact of what we do on other people and the business

• Respect others' views, challenge where necessary and offer our own ideas

• Value what we all contribute to the business

• Be down to earth, open and honest

MAKE IT HAPPEN

• Work with drive and passion, and go the extra mile

• Take ownership for delivering plans and meeting our objectives

• Celebrate success and never be satisfied

• Involve the right people at the right time to get results - and keep it simple

• Raise the bar and be creative to stay ahead

Deliver more for less, be conscious of cos

BE A GREAT MANAGER

· Lead by example

· Help people understand their role, what's expected and how they fit in

· Create opportunities for regular discussion and manage performance

· Recognise people for a job well done

· Actively encourage our teams to work with others and build relationships

· Communicate what's going on and the impact it will have

· Support the development of your team and yourself Job type: Permanent Division: eTeam Workforce Limited Reference: 19-01602