Role overview

As SEM Senior Manager at Xero, you will lead the evolution of the company’s global Paid Search program, focusing on automation, AI and data-driven strategies to unlock scalable growth. This hands-on technical role sits within Xero’s global SEM team and involves partnering across Data Science, Marketing Technology, Product and Performance Marketing to transform how the organization approaches search advertising.

Key responsibilities

Evolve the technical foundations of the global SEM program by identifying opportunities to improve scalability, automation and performance across all markets.
Build and operationalize AI-powered workflows that automate optimization, analysis, reporting and operational processes within the SEM function.
Advance AI-driven SEM capabilities including automated bidding and decision-making systems, with robust validation, guardrails and measurement frameworks.
Identify and deliver new automation opportunities by converting manual or complex SEM processes into scalable, reusable solutions.
Partner with Data Science, Marketing Technology and Product teams to connect data, AI and emerging technology into the SEM ecosystem.
Explore emerging search and AI capabilities by testing where new technologies can create genuine commercial advantage for Xero.
Act as a senior technical voice across the organization, translating complex ideas into clear opportunities for senior stakeholders and elevating technical capability within the team.

Requirements

Deep, hands-on SEM expertise with proven experience managing large-scale, multi-market Paid Search programs and strong knowledge of Google Ads, SA360 and modern bidding and automation approaches.
Demonstrated technical builder capability with experience designing and deploying automation, workflows or other technical solutions that solve real performance marketing problems.
Hands-on experience with AI and workflow orchestration tools such as Tray.ai, AirOps, n8n, Make, Zapier, OpenAI, Claude or similar technologies.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to work through complex performance and technical challenges and translate data into clear actions.
Proactive, solutions-first mindset with a natural ability to identify opportunities, experiment and build rather than wait for direction.
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, capable of translating complex technical concepts into clear recommendations and influencing senior leadership.
Collaborative approach with low ego, demonstrating willingness to share knowledge, mentor others and elevate the technical capability of the broader team.

What makes this role worth considering

You’ll join a specialist global SEM team focused on using data, experimentation and technology to drive continuous improvement and unlock new growth opportunities. Xero offers a hybrid working model that balances in-office collaboration with remote work flexibility, allowing you to work across different markets and time zones while maintaining strong team connection.