How to Apply
A cover letter is required for consideration for this position and should be attached as the first page of your resume. The cover letter should address your specific interest in the position and outline skills and experience that directly relate to this position.
Job Summary
The Test Security Manager is responsible for overseeing the comprehensive operations related to the secure delivery of a range of assessment-related products and services, offered in both digital and traditional paper-based formats. This role ensures strict operational compliance with all specifications defined in the test security plan and continuously evaluates and implements updates to the plan to keep it effective in the ever-evolving landscape of high-stakes testing.
The Test Security Manager will oversee all activities for investigating and reviewing potential malpractice cases in accordance with stringent test security guidelines. They will analyse and evaluate various courses of action, make strategic recommendations, and ensure the effective implementation of both corrective and preventive measures to safeguard the integrity of the organization's products and services. Additionally, this role will lead cross-functional collaboration, strategic incident response, audit management, vendor risk assessment, and continuous improvement initiatives to maintain and enhance test security standards.
As a member of the management team, the Test Security Manager contributes to the development and furtherance of our organizational policy and strategic plans.
What You'll Do
Do you have experience in test security, operational security, information security, or a related security background? If so, this role may be the next step in your career. Michigan Language Assessment is seeking a qualified test security manager to provide subject matter expertise related to the security of Michigan Language Assessment products and services. As a member of the Assessment and Operations team, you'll ensure that we meet compliance requirements; lead investigations into and provide analysis of test security threats and malpractice; serve as an advisor to senior management regarding test security policy; implement and be responsible for our test security audit program; and keep internal and external test security documentation up to date. You'll also train staff and relevant stakeholders in best practices related to test security. You'll be joining a small but dedicated group of great individuals who are innovative, supportive, and focused on quality. Although we are relatively small, about sixty employees currently, Michigan Language Assessment is a joint venture between the University of Michigan and Cambridge University Press & Assessment, which gives you the opportunity to utilize resources and expertise from two world-renowned institutions. The test security manager reports to the operations manager.
Who We Are
When you work for Michigan Language Assessment, you join one of the oldest and most respected language-testing organizations in the world. Michigan Language Assessment is committed to delivering outstanding and reliable English language assessments based on 70+ years of assessment expertise. You also become part of two leading, world-renowned universities the University of Michigan, one of the best universities to work for in the country, and Cambridge Assessment English, which is part of the University of Cambridge and has over 100 years of experience assessing English language proficiency.
The Michigan Language Assessment team is diverse, dynamic, and committed to building and strengthening a culture of inclusion, support, innovation, adaptability, quality, and trust. You'll have the chance to collaborate with peers from more than a dozen countries as you help us grow domestically and globally. We believe in hard work and the importance of personal time. We believe good ideas can come from anyone in the organization. We believe that difficult projects and hard tasks can be accomplished in an atmosphere that's collegial and supportive, because we're all in this together.
To find out more about Michigan Language Assessment, visit us at https://michiganassessment.org/about-us/.
Responsibilities*
- Lead global security, quality, and compliance for Michigan Language Assessment products and test centres by overseeing security and regulatory compliance for delivery in multiple countries, protecting recognition and the reputation of Michigan Language Assessment products. Serve as subject matter expert for security, regulations, and test integrity.
- Manage malpractice procedures and investigations by enhancing and implementing malpractice procedures, monitor and investigate security incidents, and lead the timely closure of cases. Ensure all processes are fit for purpose and legally robust.
- Lead audit, inspection, and compliance programs to monitor global test centre security performance. Supervise a network of contracted inspectors and ensure adherence to established standards. Take corrective action as required.
- Report on KPIs, continuous improvement, and center compliance. Track performance, analyze security-related metrics, and present findings to executive leadership. Lead policy and procedural improvements to enhance efficiency, risk reduction, and operational excellence.
- Develop and oversee safeguarding policies and practices for assessments, ensuring the safety and protection of underage candidates in compliance with legal and ethical requirements, in collaboration with assessment, legal, and risk teams.
- Manage early-stage onboarding and due diligence for test centers, ensuring compliance and high standards. Oversee centre closure and suspension processes as needed.
- Lead and manage a geographically distributed team of security staff, contracted inspectors, and exam integrity professionals. Manage resource allocation, continuous development, engagement, and motivation to deliver excellence.
- Contribute to the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the long-term strategic business plan, including budgeting and resource management.
Required Qualifications*
- Bachelor's degree in business operations or related field
- In-depth understanding of test security principles, regulatory compliance, and risk management; experience with global exam delivery/operations
- Strong analytical, planning, and organizing skills
- Attention to detail, with an ability to manage competing demands
- Strong understanding of quality assurance principles and practices
- Able to work on multiple large projects with tight deadlines that require a high degree of accuracy
- Excellent oral and written communications skills and strong interpersonal skills for interacting with individuals at all levels, including the executive level
- Creative approach to problem-solving with the ability to focus on details while maintaining the "big picture" view
- Effective use of MS Office products
- High-level aptitude using computers and learning software
- 5+ years in high-stakes assessment security, regulatory compliance, or credentialing
- Experience working with international clientele with a variety of social and language backgrounds
- Experience policy writing and audit management
Desired Qualifications*
- High degree of familiarity with Microsoft Dynamics
- Strong drive, motivation, and enthusiasm
- High familiarity with our products and services
- Familiar with University of Michigan policies and procedures
- Familiarity working with ISO 9001 standard, 27001 standards, or similar is beneficial
Work Locations
Michigan Language Assessment is seeking candidates located across the USA and supports a fully remote work from home schedule with occasionally scheduled in person activities. Being located within a reasonable commuting distance to an international airport is preferred.
Modes of Work
Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.
Application Deadline
Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled anytime after the minimum posting period has ended.
U-M EEO Statement
The University of Michigan is an equal employment opportunity employer.