What makes a good QA or Test manager?

A good QA, test, or QA/Test(combined) manager should:

Ø  be familiar with the software development process

Ø  be able to maintain enthusiasm of their team and promote a positive atmosphere, despite what is a somewhat 'negative' process (e.g., looking for or preventing problems)

Ø  be able to promote teamwork to increase productivity

Ø  be able to promote cooperation between software, test, and QA engineers

Ø  have the diplomatic skills needed to promote improvements in QA processes

Ø  have the ability to withstand pressures and say 'no' to other managers when quality is insufficient or QA processes are not being adhered to

Ø  have people judgement skills for hiring and keeping skilled personnel

Ø  be able to communicate with technical and non-technical people, engineers, managers, and customers.

Ø  be able to run meetings and keep them focused