QA Lead - Middle Market IT

QA Lead - Middle Market ITCommitted.  Competitive.  Constructing our Future.  That's Travelers. We are one of the leading insurance companies in the United States.  Our superior financial strength and consistent record of strong operating returns mean security for our customers - and opportunities for our employees.  You will find Travelers to be full of energy and a workplace in which you truly can make a difference. We are currently looking for a QA Lead - Middle Market IT.  Please read on for more details regarding this position. JOB DESCRIPTION: SUMMARY:Plans at a strategic/tactical level and manages the effective use of resources and directs assigned staff on all quality assurance responsibilities relating to highly complex system(s) and/or project(s) supporting BI Middle Markets. PRIMARY DUTIES:Has significant role in the creation of quality assurance strategies and plansResponsible for developing/implementing a tactical and/or operational planManages multiple information systems and/or projects of major business unit significanceA technology leader in the effort to utilize technology to develop and/or redesign the organization's processesAccountable for directing staff (including sourced partners) in order to achieve deliverables Responsible for all aspects of the human resource management of staff OTHER:Technical KnowledgeHas a broad conceptual understanding of capabilities and direction of technology, coupled with an in-depth knowledge of the technology required and the needs of business environment necessary to support assigned systems and/or projects.  Has a thorough understanding of staff responsibilities, abilities and development needs Business Knowledge & PartnershipProvides direction and effectively leads by example to ensure that all services are meeting the stated business objectives on a timely basis with excellent quality, at a reasonable cost. Keeps all areas informed of developments affecting their function.  Demonstrates flexibility, anticipates customer needs, and effectively communicates in a manner consistent with the audience. Educates and influences customers on the most effective use of technology, from both a short-term and long-term perspective Problem Solving & Decision MakingDemonstrates advanced analytical and diagnostic skills dealing with issues that are often novel and not readily defined, lack known precedent or appear contradictory.  Able to develop solutions by applying accepted processes or is able to create new approaches to leverage technology from abstract information. Sees the big picture, and is fully aware of technology and business directions.  Has department, corporate and group objectives in focus while identifying and removing barriers. Optimizes the use of all available resources Team OrientationMaintains effective partnerships across the organization and is able to influence senior management, peers and subordinates through an inclusive style and recognition of their abilities and knowledge.  Balances team and individual responsibilities.  Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views.  Gives and welcomes feedback.  Puts success of team above own interest LeadershipManages cross-functional objectives and/or priorities supporting an assigned business area(s). Responsibilities are assigned with considerable latitude for decision making. Results reviewed periodically according to predefined objectives. Sets level of risk taking, and gathers/synthesizes information to all appropriate levels of the organization Planning and Project ManagementInsures all planning done on the area level is supportive of the business strategic plans.  Appropriately delegates while maintaining accountability; sees that projects are assigned by workload and capabilities.  Completes projects accurately and on time. Critical planning is required as modifications are difficult and costly and may impair achieving of departmental and corporate objectives.  Change requires reassessing and adjusting tactical and/or operational direction Financial AwarenessHas budget responsibility for an organizational unit of 10 to 50 employees and/or a budget of between $2M and $15M.  Accounts for all fiscal budgeting and expense control for area of responsibility.  Demonstrates sound cost-effectiveness. Failure to achieve objectives will have a have a negative impact on the department and business area. Responsible for information of importance and whose disclosure could harm the overall financial position of the company Human Resource ManagementMaintains a work environment that stimulates the professional growth of all direct/indirect reports.  Provides leadership by setting example for subordinates to follow.  Effectively motivates subordinates to exert the effort necessary to attain organizational goals.  Regularly assesses the effective use of staff. Responsible for the accurate and timely completion of all staff performance evaluations and development planning. Recruits and maintains effective staff members. Demonstrates a capacity to recognize, value and respect differences across a diverse work force. In addition to an exciting environment, we offer: * Competitive base salary with additional opportunities for variable pay through recognition programs and incentive awards * 401(k) with company match* Comprehensive health plans that include coverage for same sex/domestic partners* Strong work/family and employee assistance programs* Tuition reimbursement * Vacation Purchase Plan* Training/Development opportunities We are proud to provide comprehensive, high quality employee programs to meet employees' needs now and in the future, including a very competitive financial package. Explore what we have to offer.  For immediate consideration for this position, please click on the "Apply Now" button at the bottom of this posting.  Travelers is an equal opportunity employer. We actively promote a drug-free workplace.   Company: Travelers Companies, Inc.