In this edition of Expedia Group Arrivals, we’re excited to introduce you to Xavi Amatriain, our first Chief Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Officer! Based in our new San Jose office, Xavi joins EG with over 20 years of experience managing teams and building large-scale AI products at some of the world’s most innovative technology companies—including Google, Netflix, and LinkedIn—and even co-founded Curai Health, a startup using AI to improve healthcare access. In this role, Xavi will partner closely with leaders to set the technical direction and long-term vision for AI and ML, ensuring advanced machine learning and Generative AI drive business value at scale across the company.

What inspired you to join Expedia Group? 

My career has been driven by a deep passion for using technology, especially AI, to create transformative experiences for consumers. This was the core of my pivotal work at Netflix and has been the common thread in my career ever since. I love the challenge of applying AI to revolutionize an entire vertical. When I think about a vertical that is both personally meaningful and perfectly poised for that kind of AI-driven transformation, I can’t think of a better one than travel.

This mission is also deeply personal for me. I’m originally from Barcelona, arguably one of the travel capitals of the world, and travel has always been a fundamental part of my life. From childhood trips around Spain to moving around the globe, I’ve experienced firsthand how travel enriches us personally and creates lasting memories for our families. I’ve also seen how it transformed my hometown of Barcelona. I’m incredibly excited to bring these two passions—for consumer AI and for travel—together at Expedia Group.

How would you describe your leadership style?

My leadership style is based on a “Challenge-Inspire” model. I believe the most effective leadership comes from the intersection of two pivotal elements: the ability to challenge a team to achieve ambitious goals and the power to inspire them to meet those challenges. The more a leader can inspire—whether through a compelling vision, a clear mission, or a supportive environment—the more the team will not only accept but embrace being challenged to grow and deliver.

What are some of your passions outside of work?

Outside of work, I’m an avid runner and occasional triathlete. I make it a point to run everywhere I travel, and I recently finished my 24th marathon in Berlin. I’ve also completed several ultramarathons and a full Ironman.

I also have a lifelong passion for music. I had a rock band back in Spain, and my PhD was actually a combination of computer science and music. I still play the piano and sing regularly!

Where did you travel most recently, and what destination is next on your list?

My most recent trip was to Berlin, where I ran the marathon, and Prague, where I attended the Recsys conference. Earlier this year, my wife and I also took our first-ever family cruise in the Mediterranean. We are now really looking forward to our upcoming family trip to Costa Rica this Winter break—it will be another exciting first for us!

Interested in working at Expedia Group?

We’re looking for outstanding talent to help us drive innovation and create a more inclusive future for travel. Search for jobs.