Role overview

Xero is a trusted financial platform serving millions of small businesses and their advisors globally. As a Senior Data & AI Governance Specialist, you will develop and implement data and AI governance strategies that enable responsible innovation across the business while maintaining customer trust. Reporting to the Director of Data & AI Governance, you will move beyond traditional compliance to provide practical enablement services that connect governance policies with real-world business practices.

Key responsibilities

Evolve Xero’s privacy, data, and AI governance frameworks to support rapid, responsible data use and AI adoption across the organisation.
Partner with cross-functional teams to translate governance policies into practical, user-friendly guidance and support their implementation at scale.
Develop and deliver literacy programmes and educational resources that build data and AI capability across Xero.
Collaborate with Regulatory, Privacy, and Risk functions to ensure Xero remains aligned with evolving legislation and customer expectations in data and AI governance.
Work with teams to co-design governance approaches that address real-world challenges including bias, transparency, and explainability.
Advise decision-makers on appropriate governance guardrails that empower teams to experiment and build safely.

Requirements

Deep knowledge of data governance frameworks and hands-on experience establishing stewardship models, governance forums, and supporting tools such as data catalogues and quality platforms.
Recent practical experience in AI governance with the ability to understand AI systems and navigate ethical, regulatory, and operational challenges of responsible AI at scale.
Technical depth and experience working with engineers, including knowledge of data architecture, quality, lineage, and the ability to bridge policy and technical implementation.
Strong capability in translating complex regulatory and policy requirements into clear, actionable guidance for diverse audiences, from technical experts to policy stakeholders.
Demonstrated ability to build trust quickly, communicate with clarity, and address difficult topics constructively.
Familiarity with regulations such as GDPR, the EU AI Act, and CCPA, and certification frameworks including ISO 27001 and SOC2.
A growth mindset and commitment to continuous improvement, automation, and knowledge sharing.

What makes this role worth considering

You will join the Data & AI Governance team within Xero’s Legal function, working closely with Product, Privacy, Security, Regulatory, Risk, and Government Relations to build governance that is both rigorous and genuinely useful. The role offers flexibility across Melbourne, Sydney, Auckland, or Wellington, with fully remote options available for candidates within three hours of AEST. Xero supports hybrid working with regular in-person boost days for team connection and collaboration.