Stephen Kaye-Horsley
7 Pullman House
11 Tudor Way
Leeds, LS11 8LR
Mobile: 07525245555
Email: [email protected]
DOB: 29/08/1989
Summary
I am an ISTQB-certified Software Tester looking to further my career in the world of Digital and
Software Development with a high attention to detail and an investigative nature, with a desire to
deliver the best result possible and to always go the extra mile. I have 7 years of experience in
customer service, logistics and IT, working with multiple systems, and thrive in team-based work as
well as target and deadline-driven roles and two years’ experience in working in a testing
environment. I am adaptable, flexible and work well under pressure, with a view to do the right
thing and take ownership of my work and see it through to the end.
Work Experience
NEXT PLC Technology: Junior Tester (September 2020 – Present)
In September 2020 I joined NEXT PLC Technology as a Junior Tester in their warehouse systems
department to be part of their then-latest project to develop Total Platform, a new system for
managing intake, put-away, picking, packing, perpetual inventory and distribution of partner
products.
I work alongside developers and other testers in an Agile format to create user stories, test cases
and test scenarios, as well as ultimately completing those user stories to fulfil the acceptance criteria
through the Microsoft Azure DevOps web application. This also involves us creating and completing
the test plans and charters as part of the evidencing required for our testing process. Our work
requires extensive use of SQL to both insert and manipulate data, as well as testing tools such as
Postman and Swagger, and recently we have been given access to, and training with, Leapwork to
allow for a certain amount of automation where needed.
The role has improved my skills in working as part of a team, setting personal goals and deadlines
and managing personal workload, as well as greatly improving my knowledge of the Agile process.
DLG/Green Flag: Digital Development Tester/Step-Up Team Leader/Customer Solutions (March
2016 – September 2020)
Starting July 2019, I was part of one of the Scrum teams in the year-long project to develop the new
customer claims system that was successfully launched in June 2020, working alongside the digital
development team in an Agile manner. From inception we were a part of the development journey,
helping the design and development teams with mapping out key processes, as well as creating and
executing test cases, giving feedback on these tests and participating in Sprint reviews. Since launch I
have been supporting the continual development of the system, liaising with departments and using
JIRA to raise and resolve any defects that are found in the live system.
After less than two years at the company I became step-up team leader in Green Flag’s Claims
department, wherein I was responsible for supervising a team's performance, productivity and
morale. I provided a first point of contact for customer escalations and any queries team members
may have. Additionally, I was tasked with monitoring the team's KPIs, as well as providing feedback,
both positive and constructive, where necessary. Each opportunity I was given to step-up has taught
me important lessons about being a team leader, including time management, task prioritisation and
communication methods, both written and verbal.
Inter-Mutuelles Assistance (IMA) UK: Senior Incident Manager and Support Supervisor (June 2012
– March 2016)
Based in Bingley, IMA UK is the UK arm of a French company that provides assistance to French
clients travelling or working in the UK as well as British clients travelling throughout Europe. My
senior role meant I had to manage the most complicated cases and complaints, keeping in line with
the parameters set out by the policy providers on behalf of whom we worked. Knowing the
procedures inside out and having a well-formed relationships with the suppliers allowed me to make
quick decisions and manage each case individually.
The role was multi-faceted and required high levels of customer service, communication and
problem-solving skills. Time management, scheduling and quick decision-making skills were
paramount in this role, especially during the summer season where independent decision-making
was encouraged and demand was at its highest.
Clinton Cards PLC: Sales Advisor (Seasonal contract, December 2009 -January 2010)
I provided customer service to clients over the busy Christmas period. Working at this time of year
gave me experience in a chaotic and high-stress environment, as well as improving my face-to-face
customer service skills.
Global Technologies: Office Intern and Translator (Summer work experience, June – August 2008)
I secured myself a paid summer internship at a company in Clichy, Paris where I was responsible for
translating documents and customer service software as well as obtaining Visas from the Afghan
embassy in Paris. The role greatly improved my French communication skills both written and
spoken.
Burton’s Menswear: Sales Advisor (August 2005 – September 2007, Summer 2009 and Summer
2010)
My role as a sales advisor involved aiding customers with clothing, shoes and gifts, as well as stock
management and minor training roles. Sales and customer service skills were also required to meet
sales targets for company loyalty cards, which were often achieved.
Education
2007 - 2012: University of Leeds – French and Linguistics, Joint Honours (2:2)
2005 – 2007: Colchester Sixth Form College – International Baccalaureate in French, German,
English Higher Level (5/5/5); Maths, Physics, Psychology Standard Level (5/5/6)
2000 – 2005: Holbrook High School – GCSEs in 11 subjects
Key Skills
• ISTQB-certified.
• Experience with SQL and other testing tools.
• Strong IT skills including proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Experience leading teams.
• Analytical and decision making skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Full professional fluency in French.
• Full current clean driving licence.
• National-level LCG competitor.
