Singapore – HSBC Holdings plc has confirmed the appointment of David Rice as its inaugural chief AI officer, with effect from 1 April, establishing dedicated leadership to oversee the integration and expansion of AI capabilities across the organisation.
The creation of this position reflects HSBC’s broader objective to advance its long-term transformation by embedding AI-driven technologies into operations to enhance both internal efficiency and customer-facing services.
The move forms part of a wider strategy to scale AI deployment, including the rollout of generative AI tools to employees in order to streamline workflows, simplify internal processes, and support frontline staff in delivering more tailored client interactions.
“AI is going to play an ever-increasing role in HSBC’s future plans, so I am thrilled to take on this new role to help us drive forward our transformation agenda,” David shared.
He previously served as chief operating officer within the group’s Corporate and Institutional Banking division and will now play a central role in advancing the bank’s AI agenda.
Georges Elhedery, group CEO of HSBC, shared how in the modern age of digital banking, customers’ banking services to be personalised and aligned to their specific needs, which is where AI enter the picture.
“Our ambition here is simple–we will empower our colleagues to use AI to create a personalised experience for each customer, deliver it safely, in real time and at scale, while keeping human judgement, decision-making and accountability at the core,” he stated.
“David will be instrumental in helping us realise our ambition in this area.”
Alongside this development, HSBC has extended the responsibilities of Mario Shamtani, chief technology officer, to reinforce the organisation’s technological infrastructure required for large-scale AI implementation, encompassing upgrades to core systems, the development of a unified AI platform for internal use, and the management of strategic technology partnerships.
