Programme Test Manager - Government

Programme Test Manager - Government Senior Programme Test Manager | Quality Engineering & Testing (Public Sector)

Location: UK Flexible Experience Level: Senior Management (Consultancy)

The Role

We are seeking a high-caliber Programme Test Manager to join a leading global professional services firm. This is a pivotal role within the public sector division, specifically focused on the strategic growth and delivery of our Quality Engineering and Testing Practice.

You will be a driving force in defining our market presence across Central and Local Government, Defence, Healthcare, Education, and Transport. This role balances high-level client development and revenue generation with senior-level delivery oversight.

Key Responsibilities

• Practice & Business Development: Formulate unique, value-add propositions and solutions tailored to public sector requirements. You will manage pursuit activities and convert a robust pipeline of opportunities to meet individual revenue targets.

• Client Relationship Management: Build and maintain C-suite and senior stakeholder relationships across the public sector, leveraging your industry network to expand our footprint.

• Strategic Delivery: Act as a Programme Director or Engagement Manager on complex, multi-stream IT transformation projects, ensuring seamless implementation and high-quality outcomes.

• Leadership & Mentoring: Build and manage a high-performing team of consultants, providing coaching and mentorship to foster professional growth and ensure optimal utilisation.

Experience & Requirements

Consultancy & Business Growth

• Proven Consultancy Background: You must have significant experience working within a major advisory business or leading professional services firm.

• Client Development Track Record: Demonstrable success in "sell-side" activities, including bid management, pipeline development, and achieving sales targets within a consulting environment.

• Public Sector Expertise: Deep understanding of the public sector landscape, including procurement routes, regulatory drivers, and the specific challenges of government, health, or defence sectors.

Technical Subject Matter Expertise

• Quality Engineering & Testing: You are recognised as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in testing services, costing, and market-leading tools (both commercial and open-source).

• Modern Methodologies: Expertise in Test Automation, Non-Functional Testing, Accessibility Testing, and the emerging field of Testing with/of AI.

• Complex Delivery: Experience leading large-scale testing programmes across both customer-facing and back-office systems within tight timeframes.

Individual Skills

• Exceptional communication and influencing skills, with the ability to translate complex client aspirations into practical delivery roadmaps.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.

• A collaborative "team player" mindset combined with the autonomy of a self-starter.