Who We Are
PLATO is Canada’s largest Indigenous-owned software testing and technology services company. For nearly 30 years, our expert teams have helped our clients deliver reliable products that users enjoy interacting with.
Our 100% Canada‑based team brings deep experience in QA, software testing, and IT services, along with a shared commitment to collaboration, mentorship, and continuous improvement. We’re a team that shows up for each other, whether that’s tackling complex client challenges or helping colleagues grow through coaching and knowledge‑sharing.
As Canada’s largest Indigenous‑owned software testing company, we’re proud of our roots and our mission to build a stronger, more inclusive technology workforce. At the same time, we warmly welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences who are passionate about quality, teamwork, and making an impact.
PLATO is looking for a dynamic, people-first Senior Manager to help lead our Ottawa region. This is a dual-mandate role-equal parts people leader and delivery manager-built for someone who thrives on building relationships, energizing teams, and being an active voice in Ottawa's professional community.
In this role, you'll oversee the delivery of client engagements in the region while developing and championing a high-performing team of software delivery professionals. You bring positive energy to every room, take initiative before being asked, and are known for showing up at industry events and building a network that opens doors.
Responsibilities
People Leadership & Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a team of professionals across various career stages
Support internal apprenticeship programs and ensure team members have growth-oriented development plans
Coach team members through client interviews, helping them present their best selves
Set clear expectations and measurable goals; conduct regular performance reviews and provide continuous feedback
Manage day-to-day team approvals - timecards, training requests, expenses
Be a visible, positive role model who embodies PLATO's culture and values
Employee Engagement & Culture
Drive initiatives that meaningfully enhance the employee experience
Foster a culture of continuous learning, collaboration, inclusion, and innovation
Mediate conflicts constructively and maintain a supportive team environment
Champion diversity and bring genuine enthusiasm to building team morale
Delivery Management
Oversee delivery of multiple client projects and engagements within the Ottawa region
Serve as a point of escalation for project issues; proactively assess and manage delivery risks and changes
Work with delivery leadership to monitor customer satisfaction and take corrective action when needed
Report on and manage regional staffing levels to maximize margins and KPIs
Facilitate regular team and customer meetings to review progress, milestones, and goals
Serve as a trusted advisor to clients - deepening relationships, uncovering new opportunities, and contributing to regional revenue targets
Strategically participate in client engagements - from solutioning and proposals through kickoff and delivery - providing active support to the project team throughout
Community Presence
Actively participate in Ottawa-area networking events, industry meetups, and professional communities
Leverage your existing network to surface new business opportunities and support regional sales growth
Establish and reinforce PLATO's reputation as the service delivery experts in the Ottawa market
Stay current on industry trends and bring fresh thinking to customers and the team and the team
What you'll need
Who You Are
Positive, energetic, and proactive - you spot opportunities and act on them before being asked
A natural relationship builder who is equally comfortable with clients, employees, and executives
Known in your professional community; you attend events, contribute to conversations, and grow your network with purpose
A motivating leader who brings out the best in the people around you
Calm under pressure with strong judgment when managing competing priorities
An excellent communicator - transparent, direct, and kind
Flexible and growth-minded, open to feedback from all directions
What You'll Bring
University degree or college diploma in a related discipline (IT, Business, or equivalent experience)
10+ years of progressive IT experience, with a minimum of 5 years in software testing
5+ years in a people management or supervisory capacity
5+ years of experience as a consultant or leading consultants
Proven track record of managing large-scale software delivery projects
Experience building and maintaining strong relationships with both employees and clients
Strong coaching, mentoring, and conflict resolution skills
Demonstrated activity/involvement in professional communities and networking events
Work With Us
At PLATO, we believe that great work happens when people feel supported, connected, and challenged in the right ways. You’ll be part of a collaborative environment where experienced professionals share knowledge, mentor others, and contribute to solving complex, real‑world client projects.
We are committed to inclusive hiring practices and encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including women, persons with disabilities, visible minorities, and Indigenous peoples. If you require accommodation at any stage of the recruitment process, we’re here to support you.
PLATO respectfully acknowledges that we operate on treaty territories, unceded First Nations and Inuit territories, and within Métis homelands. We honour the long history of these lands and actively work toward reconciliation between Indigenous and non‑Indigenous peoples on Turtle Island.
