- Are you an experienced Test Manager keen to try something new?
- Experienced in payroll systems and transformation programmes?
- Fixed term from asap through to approx. Dec 2026
We are seeking a seasoned professional with deep expertise in HRIS and Payroll System implementation.
Mo tenei turanga - about the role
Join a once-in-a-generation transformation at Fire and Emergency New Zealand embarking on a journey to modernise and future-proof the delivery of payroll and HR services to our people.
Reporting to the Programme Director, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the delivery of a high-quality, fully functional HRIS and Payroll Solution. The Test Manager is responsible for executing the Programme's Test Strategy, developed in collaboration with a strategic external partner with specialised experience in complex payroll programmes. You will lead and manage the end-to-end testing process, ensuring that all functional and non-functional requirements of the solution are met.
A key aspect of the role involves working closely with contracted suppliers, participating in test-related activity, to support the delivery of agreed milestones and contractual outcomes. The Test Manager will foster strong working relationships while maintaining oversight of supplier performance, ensuring contributions align with programme expectations and governance standards.
You will be supported by one direct report within this programme workstream.
This is a fixed term from ASAP to approximately December 2026.
Key Responsibilities and Oversight -
- Testing strategy and leadership
- Test management, planning and reporting
- Test execution and defect management
- Complex data migration and system validation
- Parallel payroll testing and manages services integration
- Stakeholder engagement and vendor management
Ko tau na i tenei turanga - What you'll bring to the role:
You will be a skilled Test Manager with demonstrated experience in large-scale, complex ICT programmes, ideally involving HRIS and Payroll systems. You will bring strong leadership, stakeholder management, and technical understanding to ensure complex payroll requirements are met.
Key Skills and Experience:
Experience in complex reconciliation activities, particularly in data migration and parallel payroll testing.
Experience working in programmes with managed services solutions and executing test management practices in those environments.
A base-level technical understanding of HRIS and Payroll platforms (e.g., Workday, Dayforce, aPay, SuccessFactors).
Demonstrated ability to lead risk mitigation strategies and defect resolution.
Vendor management experience, including reviewing statements of work and managing external testing teams.
Proficiency in testing tools, including Azure DevOps (or similar) for test management.
Experience working in hybrid agile-waterfall environments.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities
Strong communication and executive reporting capabilities, especially in structured governance settings
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment
Ko wai matou - who are we?
Fire and Emergency New Zealand is a Crown Entity responsible for reducing unwanted fires, responding to structural and vegetation fires and other emergencies including motor vehicle crashes, medical emergencies, hazardous substance related incidents, natural disasters, and supporting increased community resilience.
Our vision is to build stronger communities and protect what matters most to the people within them. We are proud to be recognised as New Zealand's most trusted public sector agency. Our values reflect what our people believe is core to who we are and the organisation we aspire to be.
- We Do the Right Thing - Kia Tika
- We Serve and Support - Manaakitanga
- We Are Better Together - Whanaungatanga
- We Strive to Improve - Auahatanga
Ko te tono mai - How to apply:
At Fire and Emergency New Zealand, you'll be part of a values-driven organisation committed to protecting people and communities across the country. This programme will directly support the wellbeing of our people by delivering a modern, reliable payroll solution-and you'll be a key part of making that happen.
Come join us - we are excited about the future of Fire and Emergency New Zealand, and we'd love you to be part of it! We value diversity as a strength and welcome applicants that can help bring a difference to our organisation.
If this sounds like you, apply now. To download a copy of our position description please visit our vacancy page on our FireJobs website.
If you have any specific questions about this role, please email: nhqjobs@fireandemergency.nz. Please note, applications sent via email will not be accepted.
We will be reviewing applications as they are received and may progress with suitable applicants prior to the application closing date. Therefore, please apply as soon as possible if you are interested in this position.
Applications close Wednesday 13 August 2025.
Please note: Eligibility to work in New Zealand is mandatory for this role.