Software Tester / QA Specialist - HMRC – EMCS
(2022-11)
- Conduct full lifecycle testing across backend services, using Cucumber, BDD and standard test frameworks; create reusable, parameterised tests to maximise efficiency and reduce maintenance
- Use DBeaver and SQL to analyse data, validate test results and confirm data integrity; perform manual backend testing via Postman where automation is not feasible or rapid validation is required
- Design complex test data files using XML and JSON to support targeted, efficient testing scenarios
- Test UI functionality and accessibility using tools including ARC, AXE and WAVE, ensuring compliance with GOV.UK accessibility standards
- Document all testing activities and results in Confluence, producing clear, comprehensive test reports and audit trails
- Support performance and operational acceptance testing (OAT); monitor live services via Grafana, Prometheus and Opsview, configuring alerts for outages or failures
- Gained extensive knowledge of large-scale service architecture and end-to-end flows across complex, high-volume systems
Software Tester / QA - HMRC – API Platform
(2019-12 - 2021-10)
- Worked within a team building and maintaining a central API catalogue; performed smoke, regression, accessibility and security testing across QA, staging and production environments
- Tested all changes – from frontend updates to backend non-functional changes – using tools including Postman, Jenkins and IntelliJ IDEA
- Contributed to backlog refinement and requirement definition, providing QA input on feasibility, risks, security and accessibility from project inception
- Built and maintained automated test suites, reducing manual testing time, increasing test coverage and improving overall service quality assurance
Software Tester - HMRC – Customs Declaration Services (CDS)
(2018-08 - 2019-12)
- Tested backend API services for the Customs Declaration Service, ensuring reliable, simple transactions for users of this high-volume national platform
- Validated new features, resolved defects and conducted security testing using the OWASP framework; reviewed and tested service documentation and guidelines
- Led a small improvement project (with a developer and tech lead) to redesign the search functionality for government pages; improved accessibility and aligned features with GOV.UK standards
- Created acceptance tests, supported development work, and built a security testing dashboard; monitored live performance and logs via Grafana and Kibana
Project Delivery / Software Tester - HMRC – CDIO Model Office – Innovations
(2017-11 - 2018-09)
- Part of the team delivering the migration of thousands of HMRC staff to Windows 10, involving testing and modifying hundreds of business-critical applications (including high-revenue generating systems)
- Designed and maintained a test plan to prioritise applications based on business value, usage and risk; identified low-priority / unused applications to streamline work and meet tight deadlines
- Engaged with stakeholders nationwide, arranging meetings and travelling to complete testing at regional sites where applications were only used locally
- Created standardised checklists to ensure full test coverage, reduce time on site and enable multiple user visits per trip – significantly improving delivery efficiency
Shift Manager - McDonald's Restaurant
(2012-08)
- Managed daily operations for a high-volume restaurant generating millions in annual turnover; drove sales growth while maintaining service, quality and safety standards
- Led, trained and developed shift teams; ensured staff welfare, scheduled training and supported individual career progression
- Controlled all cash handling and reconciliation processes, applying strict security protocols and resolving discrepancies accurately
- Owned compliance systems including Food Safety & Hygiene; monitored temperatures, expiry dates and product quality; produced audit reports and ensured full regulatory compliance
- Developed and implemented streamlined shift processes and leadership standards to improve efficiency and consistency across the business
