Systems Test Director

• Location (New Zealand): North Shore, Auckland
• Employment Type: Permanent, Full-time
• Base (NZD): 180k – 215k per annum
• Start Date: Immediate / Negotiable

Innovation is the heart of what we do. Are you a dynamic leader with a passion for engineering excellence? We are a global leader in technology and systems for the marine, RV, and speciality vehicle industries. We are seeking a Systems Test Director to lead a global quality assurance practice in an innovative software organisation. This role will shape the future of product testing, from validation, software automation, bench testing, to on-water testing, ensuring exceptional product quality and customer satisfaction.

You will have the opportunity to lead a large QA practice across an agile environment, monitoring and reporting key metrics to improve engineering outcomes globally. The team spans Auckland, Tulsa, Chicago, Ensenada, the UK, and Europe

The Role

As the Systems Test Director, you will:

• Take a holistic approach to quality using root cause analysis and agile methodologies to drive sustained improvements.
• Lead the systems test and test automation organisation, accountable for the quality outcomes of products.
• Manage and supervise direct and indirect employees, fostering a collaborative global environment.
• Oversee test strategy and execution to cover all aspects of quality at the appropriate level of the test pyramid, focusing on automation (SiL, HiL, Product-level testing).
• Implement, evolve, and report on measurements, metrics, and test reports.
• Advocate for CI/CD, test automation, and long-term quality thinking to reduce technical debt.
• Research and experiment with new test technologies to improve quality and cycle time.
• Collaborate with software, hardware, mechanical, and validation engineering leaders.
• Partner with field service teams to identify trends, triage issues, and implement preventative measures.
• Work closely with global product management and senior leadership on roadmaps, strategy, and research.

What We're Looking For

We value diversity of thought and experience. To be successful in this role, you should bring:

• 3–5 years' experience as a QA Manager with global exposure.
• 10+ years of experience in QA.
• Knowledge of embedded software, CANBus, networking, cloud, mobile, hardware, and ML.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree relevant to the role.
• Proven leadership skills, with the ability to motivate teams and deliver results.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for global collaboration.
• Strong organisational and interpersonal skills, including conflict resolution.
• Ability to prioritise, meet deadlines, and maintain composure under pressure.
• Support corporate programs focused on Customer Satisfaction, Collaboration, Culture of Passion, and Performance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Passion for boating or comfortable with product testing on boats.
• Experience with Atlassian, TestRail, Gherkin, Cucumber, or similar tools.
• Formal management training.

Working Conditions & Environment

• Hybrid Flexibility: This is an on-site role in Rosedale, but we offer flexibility.
• The Lab: You'll engage with advanced equipment, including shock/vibration systems, environmental chambers, battery cell cycling, and robotics.
• Global Reach: Your working hours may vary to support our global organisation, with occasional international travel (10-15%).

Why Join Us?

We are the clear leader in the marine industry, committed to our values and supporting our exceptional people. We offer:

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.
• A robust Wellness Program.
• Career growth opportunities within a global organisation.
• The chance to work on products that are "making a splash" worldwide!