Engineering Manager - Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence

Role Overview

As the Engineering Manager for the Machine Learning & AI Team, you will lead a skilled and diverse group of ML and platform engineers committed to building production-level ML infrastructure that can operate reliably at scale. Your focus will include balancing steady delivery with a strong emphasis on system reliability, MLOps maturity, observability, and addressing the operational challenges inherent in running AI systems beyond feature delivery.

Team Collaboration and Scope

In this position, you will collaborate closely with senior technical stakeholders such as staff and principal engineers who design the technical architecture. Your main responsibilities will involve fostering team development, driving delivery excellence, and advocating for AI-native workflows throughout the software development lifecycle.

You will be part of Xero's Data & AI organization within the AI Products division, reporting directly to the General Manager of ML Engineering. This team transforms research and model prototypes from applied scientists into secure, scalable ML infrastructure that supports millions of small businesses daily. The group maintains close partnerships with Applied Science, Data Engineering, and Product teams to transition ideas from concept to production.

Current Projects

• Developing production ML infrastructure and MLOps to support Xero's AI-centric product suite
• Building systems for JAX (Just Ask Xero), the company’s conversational Generative AI assistant
• Enhancing Auto Bank Rec and intelligent document capture, including AI-driven transaction matching and extraction from bills and receipts
• Working on future initiatives such as extending cash flow forecasting and other embedded machine learning functionalities

Work Environment

Xero promotes a flexible working arrangement that allows for a balance between professional and personal commitments. The role supports hybrid working, combining remote work benefits with in-office collaboration and team gatherings to encourage connection and alignment.

Desired Qualifications and Attributes

• Proven history of leading, mentoring, and developing engineering teams, with the ability to grow team capabilities over time
• Strong technical insight into architecture, system design, and making informed engineering trade-offs
• Ability to transform business objectives into actionable engineering strategies, balancing immediate deliverables with sustainable system health
• Experience managing delivery roadmaps efficiently within fast-evolving, dynamic environments
• Willingness to maintain hands-on involvement when needed by writing, reviewing, or debugging production code to assist team members or resolve incidents
• While direct experience with machine learning or AI systems is optional, an enthusiastic interest in these areas will support success in this role

Application Note

Applicants do not need to meet all listed qualifications exactly; the company values skills, enthusiasm, and diverse perspectives that contribute positively to the culture and team dynamics.