Test Architecture & Automation Infrastructure:
Design, architect, and maintain scalable, modular automated test frameworks (Java-based) for backend services, REST APIs, SAP workflows, and web/mobile applications. Build and integrate automation suites into CI/CD pipelines to support continuous deployment across retail platform environments. Drive API testing (REST Assured/Karate), UI testing (Playwright/Selenium), mobile testing (Appium/XCUITest), and enterprise SAP automation. Define end-to-end test data strategies, mock services, and environment setups for complex integration testing. Backend Tooling & Systems Design: Design and build custom backend test tooling, test harness applications, and execution infrastructure using Java and Spring Boot. Architect solutions for multi-threaded, high-throughput test execution environments to minimize build/test cycle times. Work with SQL and NoSQL databases for automated test data validation and system state verification. Maintain clean code standards, system design documentation, and framework guides. Cross-Functional Leadership & Quality Strategy: Lead and coordinate testing efforts across multiple concurrent retail projects with overlapping release schedules. Establish organization-wide QA standards, testing guidelines, and automation best practices. Coordinate cross-functional onsite and offshore engineering activities. Conduct risk assessments, define mitigation strategies, and present quality updates to Senior Management. Partner with Product Managers, Developers, and Business Stakeholders to translate complex requirements into robust test strategies. Quality Advocacy & Continuous Improvement: Advocate for "shift-left" testing practices, testability in software design, and high quality standards across teams. Monitor quality metrics, track automation coverage goals, and provide actionable status reports to stakeholders. Proactively identify technical bottlenecks, environment risks, and systemic blockers.