Software Quality Assurance Lead

Leonardo is looking to recruit a Software Quality Assurance Team Lead , based at its site in Luton. The role will directly support the Electronic Warfare Line of Business in a number of key programmes, ensuring quality is actively involved throughout the software development Lifecycle. Working across the Combat Air, IMS and S&PT Sectors, providing an independent assurance that projects be executed in accordance with defined process and that agreed customer software quality requirements are realised in line with planned customer expectations. Role holders will manage their own work with limited supervision and resolve problems and queries, while managing others to achieve objectives. The holder may contribute to customer and vendor aspects, working within quality planning and participating in areas such as non-conformance, corrective action and continuous improvement as a specialist in these areas. Along with leading and supporting others, this is also a hands-on role where the Team Lead will be expected to be directly involved in supporting project activities. As a Software Quality Assurance Team Lead, you will play a key role in ensuring high standards of quality and compliance across our cutting-edge projects. You’ll collaborate with cross-functional teams, bring a proactive approach to managing risk, and champion continuous improvement. Your leadership will help shape not just project outcomes but also team culture. Identify and manage software specific risks, threats, and opportunities across projects, ensuring alignment with Programme Assurance Plans. Supporting Software QA’s to deliver quality outcomes in line with project milestones throughout the lifecycle. Lead quality system enhancements and initiatives that strengthen assurance and compliance. Coach, mentor and assess team members from a variety of backgrounds, supporting their personal and professional growth. Working in conjunction with the Procurement and Supplier Quality in the creation of a specific Supplier Management Plan for software outsourcing activities Assessing the ability of current and prospective subcontracted companies to perform software development to required standards Provide actionable insights through data reporting to internal and external stakeholders. Creation and maintenance of software quality assurance plans in accordance with contractual conditions and company standards Estimating software quality assurance resources as part of forward load management Assessing projects for compliance with software development plans and processes Be fully aware and engaged with the IPT risks and opportunities Reviewing software plans, requirements, design, test specifications, and test results Participating in software lifecycle reviews Performing software audits and reviews and supporting external audits Verifying the release of deliverable software Knowledge and experience of software tools e.g. Requirements management, Configuration Management, Test, Code Coverage and Static Analysis. Working knowledge of quality frameworks including AS9100, ISO9001, AQAP 2210, DO-178 C. and associated continuous improvement tools. Hands-on experience with quality tools like DOORS, Dimensions, SAP, DevOps. Ability to travel to customers, suppliers or other Leonardo sites if required. Further education and experience ideally in Engineering, Quality, Manufacturing or experience in Defence Electronics or similarly "complex" industry. Knowledge and practical experience of software quality Excellent time management and organisation skills facilitating prioritisation and running multi tasks in parallel, against challenging time requirements. Security Clearance We offer a comprehensive, company-funded benefits package that supports your wellbeing, career development, and work–life balance. Whether you're looking to grow professionally, care for your health, or plan for the future, we’re here to help you thrive. Secure your Future Benefit from our award-winning pension scheme with up to 15% employer contribution. Your Wellbeing Matters Free access to mental health support, financial advice, and employee-led networks championing inclusion and diversity (Enable, Pride, Equalise, Armed Forces, Carers, Wellbeing and Ethnicity). Rewarding Performance All employees at management level and below are eligible for our bonus scheme. Never Stop Learning Free access to 4,000+ online courses via Coursera and LinkedIn Learning. Refer a friend Receive a financial reward through our referral programme. Tailored Perks Spend up to £500 annually on flexible benefits including private healthcare, dental, family cover, tech & lifestyle discounts, gym memberships and more. Flexible working Flexible hours with hybrid working options. For part time opportunities, please talk to us about what might be possible for this role. For a full list of our company benefits please visit our website. Headquartered in Italy, we employ over 53,000 people worldwide including 8,500 across 9 sites in the UK. At Leonardo we are committed to building an inclusive, accessible, and welcoming workplace. Contract Type Employee-Permanent Hybrid Working Hybrid