Contract QA Manager - 9 Month ContractMy client are seeking an experienced Contract QA Manager to lead a standalone Quality Assurance function supporting a complex software delivery programme.The role focuses on strengthening QA planning, execution, and delivery predictability, ensuring QA activities are planned, tracked, and aligned with agreed project plans. The QA Manager will be responsible for actively managing QA timelines as delivery priorities and release schedules evolve, and for supporting early identification and mitigation of risks to delivery plans.Key ResponsibilitiesLead and manage a standalone Quality Assurance function of 5 local resources (1x automated; 4x manual) supporting multiple software delivery releases from internal and external development teams into regulated energy markets.Own QA planning and scheduling across projects and releases, ensuring alignment with agreed delivery plans and cross-release dependencies.Proactively manage QA timelines as scope, priorities, release schedules, and code quality vary.Identify, communicate, and mitigate risks to QA delivery and project mitigating impact to overall project timelines.Provide clear, accurate QA reporting on progress, forecasts, and risks.Oversee QA execution and assurance activities to ensure appropriate test coverage, quality outcomes, and audit-ready evidence.Maintain best-practice QA documentation and reporting suitable for internal governance and external audit requirements.Develop QA capability and performance within the team through clear expectations and continuous improvement.Experience & SkillsEssentialProven experience as a QA Manager / Test Manager on complex software delivery programmes.Strong background in QA planning, estimation, and coordination.Experience working with evolving delivery plans, shifting release schedules and varying code quality.Experience testing externally developed software.Strong communication and stakeholder management skillsISQTB and relevant undergraduate degreeDesirableExperience in regulated or high-volume environments (e.g. utilities, financial services)Experience operating QA as a standalone function.Personal AttributesOrganised, collaborative, and delivery-focused.Comfortable working in dynamic delivery environments.Proactive, pragmatic, and solutions-oriented.Clear and transparent communicator.Success MeasuresQA delivery aligned with agreed project plan milestones.Improved predictability and accuracy of QA timelines.Early visibility of risks and proactive mitigation.Consistent application of QA best practices.Seniority level Mid-Senior level Employment type Contract Job function Information Technology Industries Staffing and Recruiting