Manager, Forward Deployed Engineering (AI)

TL;DR

Manager, Forward Deployed Engineering (AI): Leading a team of Forward Deployed and AI Engineers to deliver lakehouse migrations and GenAI systems for strategic enterprise accounts in Australia with an accent on delivery excellence and technical governance. Focus on architecting mission-critical AI/ML platforms, managing C-suite stakeholders, and scaling a high-performing technical delivery organization.

Location: Sydney, Australia

Company

Databricks is a data and AI company providing a unified Data Intelligence Platform to unify data, analytics, and AI for thousands of organizations worldwide.

What you will do

• Lead and scale a high-performing team of Forward Deployed and AI Engineers for strategic enterprise accounts in NSW.
• Oversee high-stakes engagements including large-scale data migrations, legacy modernization, and Generative AI/MLOps deployments.
• Drive regional performance targets, including billable utilization, team growth, and hiring.
• Establish delivery governance, risk management, and quality standards for the AI Engineering practice.
• Act as the executive escalation point for critical customer situations to protect strategic relationships.
• Mentor Resident Solutions Architects and AI Engineers through structured career pathways and technical coaching.

Requirements

• 4+ years of people leadership experience managing technical delivery teams or solution architects.
• 5+ years of hands-on experience as a technical solutions architect or data/AI engineer.
• Proven track record of leading large-scale data platform migrations and AI/ML programs in enterprise environments.
• Strong executive presence and experience influencing at the C-suite level.
• Familiarity with Databricks, Apache Spark, MLflow, Delta Lake, or the modern data and AI ecosystem.

Culture & Benefits

• Inclusive culture committed to diversity and equal employment opportunity.
• Comprehensive benefits and perks tailored to the region.
• Environment focused on innovation, mastery, and continuous growth.