About Canonical

Canonical is a pioneering technology company at the forefront of the global shift to open source software. As the creators and stewards of Ubuntu, the world's most popular Linux distribution for enterprises, Canonical powers breakthrough initiatives in public cloud, data science, AI, engineering innovation, and IoT. Our customers include leading public cloud providers, silicon manufacturers, and industry giants across sectors. With over 1200 colleagues in more than 80 countries, Canonical embodies a founder-led, profitable, and rapidly growing distributed collaboration model. Very few roles are office-based; instead, teams align on strategy during two to four in-person meetings annually in exciting global locations. This remote-first culture fosters innovation while supporting work-life balance.

Role Overview

The Python Engineering Manager, Commercial Systems role is a pivotal leadership position within Canonical's Commercial Systems unit. This unit comprises six engineering teams that collaborate closely with other engineering and business groups to deliver services at the heart of Canonical's business operations. Python is integral to these efforts. Opportunities exist in specialized teams like Data Governance, which enables secure access to data meshes using tools such as Trino and Ranger, and Integrations, which automates SaaS user management, tracks application spend, and integrates data sources via open-source ETL solutions. Reporting to senior engineering leadership, you'll drive accountability, high-quality standards, and skill development in a fully remote EMEA-based position.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you'll take full ownership of an internal product's design and development while leading a team of talented Python engineers. Your responsibilities include fostering continuous skill growth among direct reports, identifying process improvements, and aligning technical solutions with business needs for maximum impact. Expect to collaborate across teams to support Canonical's data-driven decisions, automate workflows, and scale open-source solutions that underpin our commercial success. International travel twice yearly for up to two weeks is required to participate in company-wide strategy sessions.

Team Leadership

Guide and mentor software engineers, ensuring high engineering standards and delivery excellence in Python-based projects.

Product Accountability

Oversee the end-to-end lifecycle of internal tools critical to data governance and integrations.

Qualifications & Requirements

Canonical seeks candidates with an exceptional academic track record from high school and university, typically holding an undergraduate degree in a technical field or a compelling narrative for an alternative path. A proven history of exceeding expectations and delivering outstanding results is essential. You must have hands-on experience with software development in high-level languages such as Python, Golang, or Java. Professional-level written and spoken English, coupled with excellent presentation skills, is non-negotiable. We're looking for result-oriented leaders with personal drive, the ability to meet commitments, and willingness to travel internationally.

Nice-to-Have Expertise

Experience in performance engineering, SRE, data governance, data engineering, or data science will set you apart, especially with tools like Trino, Ranger, or ETL frameworks.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers competitive, performance-based compensation tailored to location, experience, and results, with annual reviews and potential bonuses or commissions. Beyond base pay, enjoy a distributed work environment, USD 2,000 annual personal learning budget, recognition rewards, generous holiday leave, maternity and paternity leave, and an Employee Assistance Program. Travel perks include Priority Pass and upgrades for long-haul company events, plus opportunities to meet global colleagues in new locations.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is driven by performance and impact. As an Engineering Manager, you'll have ample opportunities to develop leadership skills, contribute to open-source innovation on Ubuntu, and advance into senior roles. Our commitment to continuous learning—backed by the personal development budget—ensures you stay ahead in Python, data engineering, and emerging tech. With a growing company, high performers see rapid advancement in a meritocratic culture.

Why Join Canonical

Joining Canonical means contributing to Ubuntu's ecosystem, the backbone of enterprise open source worldwide. Work on cutting-edge commercial systems that enable data-driven growth, all from a home-based setup in EMEA. Our remote-first model, combined with purposeful in-person sprints, builds strong teams without geographical constraints. Be part of a profitable, founder-led organization pioneering distributed engineering excellence. If you thrive on accountability, open-source passion, and delivering innovative solutions, this is your chance to lead at a world-class tech firm.

Role FAQs

Q: Is this role fully remote? Yes, it's home-based anywhere in the EMEA region, with occasional travel for company events.

Q: What teams can I lead? Opportunities in Data Governance or Integrations, focusing on Python-driven data mesh, SaaS automation, and ETL integrations.

Q: What's the tech stack? Primarily Python, with open-source tools like Trino, Ranger, and ETL solutions; experience in Golang or Java is valued.

Q: How does Canonical support professional growth? Through a USD 2,000 learning budget, annual reviews, mentorship, and exposure to global projects.

Q: What makes Canonical unique? Our remote-first culture, Ubuntu's enterprise dominance, and focus on open source set us apart in tech.