Role overview

Xero is a financial software platform trusted by millions of small businesses worldwide. As a Senior Data & AI Governance Specialist, you will develop and implement data governance frameworks and AI governance practices that enable responsible innovation across the organization. Reporting to the Director of Data & AI Governance, you will work beyond traditional compliance to provide practical guidance that helps teams adopt data and AI safely while maintaining customer trust.

Key responsibilities

Evolve Xero’s privacy, data, and AI governance frameworks to support rapid and responsible data use and AI adoption across the business.
Partner with cross-functional teams to translate governance policies into practical, user-friendly guidance and support their implementation at scale.
Design and deliver educational programmes and tailored resources that build data and AI capability across the organization.
Collaborate with Regulatory, Privacy, and Risk functions to ensure Xero stays aligned with evolving legislation and customer expectations in data and AI governance.
Advise decision-makers on appropriate governance safeguards that empower teams to experiment and build responsibly while addressing challenges like bias, transparency, and explainability.
Work with technical teams to ensure governance approaches account for data architecture, quality, lineage, and AI system design.

Requirements

Deep knowledge of data governance frameworks and hands-on experience establishing stewardship models, governance forums, and supporting tools such as data catalogues and data quality platforms.
Recent practical experience in AI governance, including understanding of AI systems and the ethical, regulatory, and operational challenges of responsible AI deployment at scale.
Technical depth gained through working with engineers and technical experts, with hands-on familiarity in areas like data architecture, quality, and lineage.
Proven ability to translate complex regulatory and policy requirements into clear, actionable guidance for diverse audiences, from technical specialists to policy stakeholders.
Strong interpersonal skills, with a reputation for building trust quickly, communicating clearly, and confidently addressing difficult topics.
Familiarity with regulations such as GDPR, EU AI Act, and CCPA, and experience with certification frameworks such as ISO 27001 or SOC 2.
A growth mindset and commitment to continuous improvement, with a drive to automate processes and share learning across teams.

What makes this role worth considering

You will join a dedicated Data & AI Governance team embedded within Xero’s Legal function, working closely with Product, Privacy, Security, Regulatory, Risk, and Government Relations. The role offers flexible and hybrid working arrangements across Auckland, Wellington, Sydney, or Melbourne, with fully remote options available for those within three hours of AEST. This is an opportunity to shape how a global company manages data responsibly while enabling meaningful innovation.