Let's Write Africa's Story Together!

Old Mutual is a firm believer in the African opportunity and our diverse talent reflects this.

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced QA SDET Automation Manager with 13+ years of hands-on experience in test automation, framework design, and quality leadership. This role is ideal for a strategic and technically strong professional who can lead test automation initiatives across squads, architect robust frameworks, and drive quality-first delivery in Agile environments.

You will lead end-to-end test automation strategy across multiple projects, drive continuous improvements in automation, and mentor a team of engineers while staying aligned with modern industry trends, including DevOps and AI-driven testing.

KEY RESULT AREAS

Define and implement a comprehensive test automation strategy aligned with business and technical objectives.
• Design, build, and maintain scalable automation frameworks for web, API, and mobile platforms.
• Lead and manage QA automation efforts across squads/platforms, ensuring consistency in tools, standards, and practices.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Product Owners, Developers, and DevOps to define testing scope, stories, and acceptance criteria.
• Integrate automated test suites into CI/CD pipelines, supporting continuous testing and delivery.
• Manage regression test cycles, ensuring stable test environments and quick defect turnaround.
• Conduct technical reviews, lead script debugging sessions, and unblock test teams where necessary.
• Guide test reporting and analytics, ensuring test coverage and quality metrics are monitored and communicated effectively.
• Mentor and coach QA engineers, fostering a high-performing and learning-focused team culture.
• Conduct technical assessments, POCs, and tool evaluations to improve automation capabilities.
• Promote best practices in Agile, BDD/TDD, and risk-based testing methodologies.

ROLE REQUIREMENTS

13+ years of progressive experience in test automation, QA leadership, and framework development.
• Strong technical expertise in Java, Selenium, API automation (REST Assured/Karate), Appium, TestNG, BDD with Cucumber.
• Proven experience leading test automation across web, mobile, and API layers.
• Deep knowledge of CI/CD practices, tools like Jenkins, GitHub Actions, Azure DevOps, and integrating test suites into pipelines.
• Expertise in test data management, environment stability, and automation maintenance.
• In-depth understanding of framework patterns (e.g., Page Object Model, Data-Driven, Hybrid) and Agile/DevOps methodologies.
• Strong experience with test planning, estimation, and execution strategies.
• Knowledge of performance testing tools (e.g., JMeter, Gatling) is a plus.
• Familiarity with AI/ML-driven testing tools or approaches is desirable.
• Ability to lead technical discussions, influence stakeholders, and drive change.

Nice to Have

• Exposure to cloud platforms (AWS, Azure) and container technologies (Docker, Kubernetes).
• Knowledge of security and performance testing practices.
• Hands-on with test orchestration, real-device cloud platforms (BrowserStack, HeadSpin).
• Familiarity with AI-based test generation or optimization tools.

Soft Skills

• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Analytical thinker with a solution-driven mindset.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• High attention

Skills

Adaptive Thinking, Change Management, Data Analysis, Data Compilation, Executing Plans, Laboratory Testing, Policies & Procedures, Project Performance Management (PM), QA Methodologies, Regulatory Compliance Management, Report Review, Software Testing, Test Case Management

Competencies

Builds Effective TeamsCommunicates EffectivelyEnsures AccountabilityInstills TrustManages ComplexityOptimizes Work ProcessesOrganizational SavvyPlans and Aligns

Education

Closing Date

07 August 2025 , 23:59

The appointment will be made from the designated group in line with the Employment Equity Plan of Old Mutual South Africa and the specific business unit in question.

The Old Mutual Story!