Job Specification Test Lead

Programme: Workday HCM Implementation

Organisation: Headfirst

Location: Remote

Overview

Headfirst is delivering a major transformation programme to implement Workday HCM, replacing legacy HR systems across the organisation.

This is a large-scale, complex implementation involving multiple system integrations, data migration, and full end-to-end validation of HR business processes across the hire-to-retire lifecycle, including core HCM, recruiting, onboarding, compensation, benefits, absence management, talent and performance management, and integrations with downstream and third-party systems (including payroll and finance).

We are seeking an experienced Test Lead to own and drive delivery across System Integration Testing (SIT), Regression, Data Migration, and User Acceptance Testing (UAT) phases, ensuring a high-quality and low-risk implementation.

Role Purpose

The Test Lead will own the test strategy and lead a team of testers executing hands-on testing across Workday HCM and its integrated ecosystem. The role focuses on defining the test approach, managing test execution, and validating data integrity, system interfaces, and end-to-end HR business processes, working closely with the Workday project team, and wider business stakeholders across the programme.

Key Responsibilities

- Define and own the test strategy and test plans for the Workday HCM implementation
- Lead and coordinate a team of testers across SIT, Regression, Data Migration, and UAT phases
- Design and oversee execution of end-to-end test scenarios across Workday HCM and integrated internal and third-party systems
- Validate system integrations, including data flows, interfaces (e.g. EIBs, Workday Studio, Core Connectors), and dependencies




- Oversee API and interface testing using tools such as smart sheets and Jira
- Own execution of regression test packs covering core HR business processes (Core HCM, Recruiting, Onboarding, Compensation, Benefits, Absence Management, Talent Management, and Payroll interfaces)
- Identify, assess, and communicate risks and impacts arising from defects or system changes to programme leadership
- Lead validation of data migration from legacy HR systems, including reconciliation, sampling, and discrepancy analysis
- Lead System Integration Testing (SIT) cycles, ensuring full end-to-end business process coverage
- Own the defect management process: triage, prioritisation, tracking, and retesting using defect management tools
- Work closely with Workday functional consultants, developers, integration teams, and third parties to support defect resolution
- Lead User Acceptance Testing (UAT), including defect triage, re-testing, and coordination with HR business users
- Maintain explicit, auditable test execution evidence and documentation, ensuring test governance standards are met
- Provide regular reporting on progress, defects, risks, and blockers to the Test Manager and programme stakeholders
- Collaborate effectively with HR business analysts, process owners, and programme stakeholders
- Mentor and support less experienced testers within the team

Skills & Experience

- Proven experience as a Test Lead delivering System Integration Testing (SIT)



on HR/HCM or HR transformation programmes
- Hands-on experience testing Workday HCM
- Experience working in integration-heavy, multi-system environments
- Ability to interpret and analyse JSON and XML data structures
- Experience in data migration testing and validation, including reconciliation and discrepancy analysis
- Strong defect management experience (e.g. JIRA, Azure DevOps)
- Experience defining test strategy, test plans, and leading test teams
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- High attention to detail and focus on quality
- Strong stakeholder management skills, comfortable engaging with senior HR and programme stakeholders
- Preferred: some hands-on experience testing Workday Financials in addition to Workday HCM

Desirable

- Experience testing Workday HCM specifically (e.g. Core HCM, Recruiting, Onboarding, Compensation, Benefits, Absence Management, Talent Management, Payroll)
- Experience testing Workday Financials (e.g. GL, AP, AR, Fixed Assets, Banking, Procurement, Expenses)
- Experience with Workday integration tools (EIB, Workday Studio, Core Connectors, PECI)
- HR / people domain knowledge
- Experience working on large-scale ERP or HR transformation programmes
- Exposure to middleware or integration platforms
- Experience using Postman, SoapUI, or similar tools
- Workday certification(s) (e.g. Workday HCM Functional or Integration certification)

Working Style & Attributes

- Comfortable working in a fast-paced transformation environment
- Strong leader and communicator across both technical and business/HR teams
- Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and risk reduction
- Collaborative and proactive approach to problem-solving
- Able to manage and motivate a test team under tight deadlines

📌 Test Lead - Workday HCM Implementation (India)
🏢 Guidant Global
📍 India