Head of Engineering

Xero3 days ago

Location

NZ: Auckland: Xero 4 (96 St Georges Bay Rd, Level 2 & 3)

Type

Full Time

Salary

NZD 250,000 – 350,000

Level

Director

Role

Engineering Manager

Posted

Apr 7, 2026

Full TimeDirector

The role

Summary

A senior leadership role at Xero responsible for driving engineering excellence across multiple teams, focusing on AI-powered workflows, technical modernization, and building high-performing engineering talent in a cloud-based accounting software platform.

What you'll do

Technical Leadership: Lead multiple engineering teams, maintain system health, and drive product delivery velocity across Xero's software portfolio.

AI and Modernization Strategy: Champion AI-first methodologies and lead technical modernization efforts, including transitioning from monolithic architectures to decoupled services.

Team Development: Define hiring strategies, grow high-performing talent, and support engineering career progression across teams.

Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with Product and Design leaders to balance customer, business, and technical priorities while executing complex cross-team programs.

Operational Excellence: Ensure high-quality production services with a focus on reliability, observability, and continuous improvement.

What we look for

Technical

Software ArchitectureDeep understanding of software architecture, design trade-offs, and technical debt management at enterprise scale

AI TechnologiesExperience with responsible AI architecture and AI-powered workflow implementation

System ModernizationExpertise in transitioning from monolithic to microservices architecture and API-first integration patterns

Education

Computer ScienceAdvanced degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or equivalent professional experience preferred

Experience

Leadership ExperienceProven track record of managing and growing high-performing engineering leaders and teams

Strategic ManagementDemonstrated ability to navigate complex cross-functional challenges in fast-scaling technology environments

Skills

Required skills

Strategic LeadershipAbility to make decisive actions and simplify complex organizational challenges

Emotional IntelligenceHigh EQ with strong interpersonal skills, self-awareness, and empathy

Performance ManagementExpertise in fostering a growth mindset and culture of accountability

Nice to have

Cloud TechnologiesExperience with cloud-based software platforms and scalable infrastructure

Accounting Software DomainKnowledge of small business financial technology ecosystems

Compensation & benefits

Salary

NZD 250,000 – 350,000 (annual)

Stock options

Available

Benefits

Hybrid Work Environment

Flexible working arrangement with office collaboration and remote work options

Professional Development

Opportunities for career progression and continuous learning in a global technology company

Innovative Culture

Work in a dynamic, customer-obsessed environment focused on small business technology solutions

Interview process

1
Initial Screening — HR review of application and initial qualification check
2
Technical Leadership Interview — In-depth discussion of engineering leadership experience and strategic approach
3
Executive Panel Interview — Meeting with senior leadership to assess cultural fit and strategic alignment
4
Final Assessment — Comprehensive evaluation of technical expertise, leadership capabilities, and potential contribution