Role overview
As SEM Senior Manager at Xero, you will lead the evolution of the company’s global Paid Search program with a focus on automation, AI and data-driven scalability. This is a hands-on, technical role where you will shape how Xero applies emerging technologies to search marketing, working with specialist teams across data science, marketing technology and product to transform performance challenges into scalable solutions.
Key responsibilities
- Evolve the technical foundations of the global SEM program by identifying and implementing opportunities to improve scalability, automation and overall performance across markets.
- Design and operationalize AI-powered workflows that automate optimization, analysis, reporting and operational processes within the SEM operation.
- Advance AI-driven SEM capabilities including automated bidding and decision-making systems, ensuring robust validation, guardrails and measurement are in place.
- Identify and deliver new automation opportunities that transform 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.
- Test and explore emerging search and AI capabilities to identify where new technologies can deliver genuine commercial advantage for Xero.
- Mentor and elevate the technical capability of the existing SEM team while acting as a senior technical voice translating complex ideas for senior stakeholders.
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 strategies.
- Demonstrated technical builder capability with experience designing and deploying automation, workflows or technical solutions that solve real performance marketing challenges.
- 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 navigate complex performance and technical challenges and translate data into clear, actionable recommendations.
- Proactive, solutions-first mindset with a natural inclination to identify opportunities, experiment and build rather than wait for direction.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, capable of translating complex technical concepts into clear recommendations and influencing senior leaders.
- Collaborative approach with low ego, willingness to share knowledge, mentor others and strengthen the technical capability of the broader team.
What makes this role worth considering
You will join Xero’s specialist global SEM team focused on using data, experimentation and technology to drive continuous performance improvement and unlock growth opportunities. The hybrid working model balances office collaboration with the flexibility to work from home, and you will have the opportunity to work across different markets and time zones while helping define how a major organization applies AI and automation to paid search at scale.
How to apply
Use the Apply button to view the official job posting and submit your application on Xero's careers site.
ImmigrationCafe is a job listing directory, not a recruiter. Applications are submitted on the employer's official careers website.
