Principal Test Analyst for Finance Transformation programme

The software testing team at the University of Portsmouth is a team within the Information Services PMO function, and is charged to use software testing tools and techniques to assure the quality of key digital solutions used by our customers across the university, in business areas such as HR, Finance, Facilities Management, Marketing etc.

This post is a key position in our digital transformation journey.

The job purpose is to work within the Finance transformation programme, which will be delivering a Oracle Fusion business solution as a replacement to the current E5 system as part of a major transformation of the university finance function, and to lead on the software testing needed for this programme.

As a Principal Test Analyst, you will work with internal and external stakeholders to ensure that the best possible software testing is done to assure that supplied systems meet business requirements of Stakeholders of the programme, support their businesses processes, are the best they can be, and are fit for purpose for users.

You will work at a high-level, gaining acceptance with senior stakeholders as to the required test strategy/ test approach, that assures supplied software, however tested, will meet defined objectives of the programme.

You will collaborate with stakeholders to thoroughly understand business requirements, both functional and non-functional, and use this alongside a thorough knowledge of any testing to be done by suppliers, helping in developing individual test plans designed to show that testing, functional and non-functional, meets the highest level of quality assurance.

You will ensure that all testing (internal and by outside suppliers) is done in such a way that it meets industry as well as Higher Education (HE) best-practice and is suitably risk-based so it is appropriate to the business

You will ensure that any defects are understood, and ensure that the test team actively takes part in defect triage, ensuring coordination on any re-testing to validate fixes and ensure that team update test scripts to reflect resolved issues, ensuring comprehensive coverage for regression testing and ongoing quality assurance, and lead on any Root Cause Analysis (RCA) activities

You will ensure that the latest and most appropriate test tooling (including automation and use of AI where appropriate) is used to test business solutions for programme, ensuring that testing is efficient but never excessive

You will ensure that the test team works in such a way that stakeholders feel they are well informed, including progress of test execution, achieved test coverage and also defects and the implications of any risks that are exposed, and then providing the reporting evidence that is a vital input to go/ no go decisions, and also keep the Test Manager informed of progress, problems, and risks and issues of testing.

You will collaborate with cross-functional teams – using experience and influence, proactively contributing ideas and best practices to continuously improve the whole Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC), particularly in an Agile fashion.

This role would suit an experienced senior test analyst who has hands-on testing on a major digital transformation programme, with demonstrable testing knowledge and experience.

The individual would have practicable skills and abilities using manual and automated testing tools, and possess a high level of analytical attention to detail. The individual would understand typical software development and testing lifecycles, have good communication skills including the ability to describe complex technical solutions to technical and non-technical audiences.

An understanding of testing Oracle Fusion product, particularly the testing of, would be an advantage, as would knowledge of other typical University information system products such as Tribal SITS or MHR iTrent.

Qualifications/ accreditations in software testing such as ISTQB would be an advantage.

The role requires the individual to have a minimum of a Bachelor's degree (or equivilant) or professional qualifications in IT or equivalent experience. ISTQB qualification in software testing is also desirable.

Whilst there is a need to be in Portsmouth a couple of days a week, hybrid working is available for this role.

The interviews are currently anticipated to be held on week commencing 16 November 2026.

This appointment is a fixed-term contract of 11 months.

If you have any queries regarding this position, please contact Jason Mudge at [email protected]

Employer, External Only: University of Portsmouth Academic Services Ltd (UASL)

Discover the advantages of joining our university. We offer a range of attractive benefits and opportunities to enhance your work experience:

• Competitive salary, including incremental progression within your scale.
• Generous pension scheme.
• Generous leave entitlement of 32–35 days a year, plus bank holidays, and an additional Christmas closure.
• Family-friendly policies supporting flexible working.
• Staff discounts and loyalty schemes.
• Staff car parking and discounted public travel.
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
• Staff wellbeing programmes.
• Recreation facilities, including discounted gym membership, food on campus schemes, use of the Library and staff social activities.
• Discounted learning.
• Start-up business mentoring from expert entrepreneurs via our Entrepreneurs in Residence programme.
• The perks don’t stop there - click ‘apply’ for further information on My Reward and Benefits

Salary Information:

New appointments will routinely be made to the entry spine point (minimum) for the advertised grade, from where the individual will (in addition to receiving annual cost-of-living-related increases) progress through the pay range to the maximum for the grade, within a reasonable timeframe. This ensures fairness, consistency and transparency in our pay structures. A higher starting salary or market supplement may be available for a truly exceptional candidate when circumstances fully justify a departure from our normal policy.

UKVI Statement

Prior to submitting your application, kindly ensure that you can either demonstrate or acquire the necessary right to work in the UK. If you currently do not possess the right to work in the UK, please be aware that our offer of employment is conditional upon you obtaining it.

ED&I Statement:

We are committed to upholding the University’s values of being ambitious, open and responsible, in an inclusive working environment that promotes dignity and respect.

Please note that this vacancy may be closed earlier than advertised, so early applications are advised.