Technical Lead

Job Description & Requirements Job Summary: We are looking for a dynamic and experienced Technical Lead (AI, Software) to provide hands-on technical leadership and people management for our AI engineering team, while also serving as the main on-site manager of the Sri Lanka branch. This role is responsible for architecting scalable AI solutions and leading, mentoring, and growing a high-performing team of engineers, while working closely with the Operations Manager to oversee branch personnel, administration, and day-to-day operations across all business units based there. The individual will play a critical role in aligning technology strategy with business goals and ensuring the successful delivery of AI-driven products. Job Responsibilities: • Lead the architecture, design, and development of AI/ML-based software systems, and define engineering standards and best practices across the team. • Oversee the end-to-end AI lifecycle — from data pipelines and model development through deployment and monitoring — ensuring systems are scalable, secure, and high-performing in production. • Lead, mentor, and develop a team of AI/software engineers, managing resource planning, task allocation, and performance reviews. • Support recruitment and retention of engineering talent, and foster a collaborative, accountable team culture. • Work closely with product managers, data teams, and business stakeholders to translate requirements into technical solutions, driving project planning, prioritization, and timely delivery. • Communicate technical concepts and progress clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. • Work jointly with the Operations Manager to manage all branch staff • Represent the branch to senior management and external stakeholders (e.g. University of Moratuwa partnership, local authorities) in coordination with the Operations Manager. • Stay current with emerging trends in AI and software engineering, and drive adoption where relevant to the business. Requirements: • Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a related field. • 8+ years of experience in software engineering, with significant exposure to AI/ML systems and a proven record of delivering production-grade AI applications. • Prior experience in team leadership or people management; experience managing or coordinating a branch/site office is essential. • Strong programming skills in Python, Rust, C#, and Dart, with a solid understanding of machine learning, deep learning, and data engineering concepts. • Experience with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP), distributed systems, and AI frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch. • Experience with MLOps, CI/CD pipelines, and DevOps practices. • Exposure to generative AI, NLP, or computer vision applications; familiarity with AI governance, ethics, and compliance frameworks is a plus. • Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and strategic thinking capabilities, with experience in agile development methodologies. • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to partner effectively with operations leadership to manage a multi-functional branch. • Accountable and results-driven, with the ability to balance technical leadership with people and branch management responsibilities.