Test Lead (Workday HCM)

Role: Test Lead (Workday HCM)Location: London, UKEmployment Type: Full-time / ContractWork Mode : HybridIndustry: InsuranceExperience: 8–12 years overall testing experience, 4+ years in Workday HCM Job SummaryWe are seeking an experienced Test Lead with strong Workday HCM expertise to lead end-to-end testing activities for a UK-based Insurance client. The ideal candidate will have hands-on knowledge of Workday HCM modules, UK payroll and regulatory requirements, and proven leadership skills to manage testing teams, stakeholders, and delivery milestones in a complex enterprise environment.Key ResponsibilitiesTest Leadership & DeliveryLead end-to-end testing for Workday HCM implementations, enhancements, and integrations.Define and own the test strategy, test plans, schedules, and test governance.Manage test execution across System Integration Testing (SIT), User Acceptance Testing (UAT), and Regression Testing.Track and report test progress, defects, risks, and quality metrics to senior stakeholders.Workday HCM ExpertiseProvide testing leadership across Workday HCM modules, including:Core HCMCompensation & BenefitsAbsence ManagementTalent / Performance (if applicable)UK Payroll (preferred)Validate Workday business processes, configurations, and security roles.Oversee testing of Workday integrations (inbound/outbound), reports, and business process frameworks (BPF).UK Insurance Domain & ComplianceEnsure testing aligns with UK regulatory, compliance, and data protection standards (e.g., HMRC, GDPR).Understand HR and payroll processes specific to the UK Insurance sector.Support audit requirements with proper test evidence and traceability.Stakeholder & Team ManagementAct as the single point of contact for all testing activities.Collaborate with HR, Payroll, IT, Workday functional consultants, and business users.Manage and mentor onshore/offshore testing teams.Facilitate UAT workshops and sign-off with business stakeholders.Required Skills & ExperienceMandatory8+ years of experience in software testing, with at least 4 years in Workday HCM testing.Strong hands-on experience in Workday HCM modules and business process testing.Solid understanding of UK HR and Payroll processes.Proven experience as a Test Lead or Test Manager in large enterprise programs.Expertise in defect management, test management tools, and test reporting.Excellent stakeholder communication and leadership skills.PreferredExperience working with UK-based Insurance clients.Workday certification (HCM / Payroll) is a plus.Experience with Agile and Waterfall delivery models.Exposure to automation testing in Workday environments.Knowledge of data migration and parallel payroll testing.