Software Test Lead - MES

Software Testing Lead – MESRole OverviewWe are seeking an experienced Software Testing Lead to oversee QA activities on our client site across an MES programme within a regulated manufacturing environment. You will lead a testing team, define the overall test approach, and work closely with development, DevOps, business, and quality teams to ensure solutions are fit for release.Experience with off-the-shelf MES platforms, particularly Syncade, is highly desirable, along with exposure to DevOps and automated testing.Key ResponsibilitiesOwn the testing strategy and approach across MES implementations, upgrades, and integrations.Lead and mentor a team of test professionals.Plan and manage functional, integration, regression, performance, and UAT activities.Develop test plans, scenarios, cases, and supporting documentation.Work with DevOps and development teams to introduce automation and integrate testing into CI/CD pipelines.Manage defects through investigation, prioritisation, and resolution.Provide testing status, risks, and quality metrics to project and senior stakeholders.Ensure testing supports regulatory and validation requirements, including GxP where applicable.Work with business and manufacturing teams to ensure testing reflects real-world processes.Essential RequirementsProven experience as a Test Lead, QA Lead, or Senior Test Engineer on enterprise-scale systems.Strong knowledge of testing methodologies and best practice.Experience working within Agile/DevOps environments.Hands-on experience with test planning, execution, and defect management.Experience using tools such as Azure DevOps, Jira, Zephyr, or qTest.Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.Experience within a regulated industry, ideally pharmaceutical, life sciences, or manufacturing.DesirableExperience with MES platforms, particularly Emerson Syncade.Knowledge of GxP, CSV, and GAMP 5.Experience with CI/CD and test automation tools such as Selenium, Playwright, or Cypress.Understanding of MES integrations with SAP, LIMS, or other enterprise systems.Knowledge of pharmaceutical or life sciences manufacturing processes.Personal AttributesQuality-focused and detail-oriented.Strong leadership and coaching capability.Organised and able to manage multiple priorities.Collaborative and confident working with technical and business stakeholders.Pragmatic, with a risk-based approach to quality and delivery.