Ash Davies
Wallasey,Merseyside
Summary
QA Engineer with proven expertise in ensuring software quality and reliability for games across multiple platforms, including Steam, Xbox, and PlayStation. Skilled in developing test plans, executing test cases, and identifying critical defects to improve performance. Collaborative and solutions-focused, with strong problem-solving and communication skills. Dedicated to process improvement and enhancing user experience through meticulous testing.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work history
Experienced QA Engineer
Avalanche Studios Group
Liverpool, Merseyside
07.2022 - 11.2025
- Led embedded QA within cross-functional development teams, delivering high-quality game builds under tight deadlines and sprint schedules.
- Advocated for robust test strategies and collaborated closely with developers, QA managers, and other stakeholders to design and execute test cases.
- Drove weekly playtests and managed bug reporting through a self-made system, ensuring efficient inputting of issues into Jira, and maintained clear communication with the developers on issues and risks.
- Proactively identified areas for performance optimisation, contributing improvements to player experience.
- Managed structured and impromptu tasks, balancing evolving project needs while independently prioritising work, and escalating critical issues.
- Championed continuous learning and adaptation by refining QA processes and integrating feedback for ongoing project success.
Game operator and tester
Breakout Liverpool
Liverpool
05.2017 - 07.2022
- My role is to greet customers and provide a fun and engaging experience for them by providing a brief, game rules and then providing hints throughout.
- I also test new rooms and puzzles, pitching new ideas on how to improve enjoyment and critiquing them.
- I am also the HR assistant for the Liverpool branch so act as the first point of contact when employees need to pass on concerns or need help.
Digital content producer
The Funky Nut
Liverpool
12.2016 - 03.2017
- I was responsible for creating video and photo content for marketing use across a range of social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
- I used skills obtained during my Filmmaking degree to film, record sound, photograph and edit a range of high-quality short films which were successful in reaching a wider audience.
Education
Bachelors degree - Filmmaking
Liverpool John Moores University
LiverpoolSkills
- Analytical thinking
- Problem-solving
- Time management
- Team communication
- Attention to detail
- Test case execution
- Continuous improvement
- Teamwork
- Flexibility
- Adaptability
- Agile methodologies
Hobbies and interests
Visual art enthusiast and UI design student. Advocate for women & LGBT in games; founder and core member of workplace Queer ERG. Enjoy baking sweet treats. Passionate about Halloween and creative community engagement.
Personal Information
Personal Game genre interests
Passionate about a variety of genres, especially life simulation, crafting, and survival experiences. Strong appreciation for titles that emphasize creativity, progression, and resource management, such as those found in contemporary life sim, crafting, and RPG games including Raft, Sea of Thieves, Stardew Valley, and Baldur’s Gate 3. Keen follower of industry trends and innovative gameplay mechanics in these genres.
Timeline
Experienced QA Engineer
Avalanche Studios Group
07.2022 - 11.2025
Game operator and tester
Breakout Liverpool
05.2017 - 07.2022
Digital content producer
The Funky Nut
12.2016 - 03.2017
Bachelors degree - Filmmaking
Liverpool John Moores University