HSBC has appointed David Rice as its first ever Chief AI Officer, marking a significant step in its efforts to embed artificial intelligence across its global operations. In this newly created role, Rice will be responsible for shaping and executing HSBC’s AI strategy, including scaling the use of generative AI tools across the bank and enabling wider adoption among employees.
A long-time HSBC executive with nearly two decades at the bank, Rice most recently served as Chief Operating Officer for its Corporate and Institutional Banking business. His appointment reflects HSBC’s growing focus on leveraging AI to enhance productivity, improve customer experience and drive operational efficiencies.
Alongside David’s appointment, HSBC has expanded the remit of Mario Shamtani in his role as Chief Technology Officer to further strengthen the bank’s technology backbone for AI deployment at scale. His responsibilities will now include modernising core systems, developing a centralised AI platform for employees to access multiple models, and driving key strategic partnerships.
Georges Elhedery, Group CEO, HSBC said, “Our customers increasingly expect their bank to deliver services uniquely aligned to their specific needs, and fast. That’s why we’re building a bank that is designed for the future. AI plays a key role in how we get there.”
He also added, “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. David will be instrumental in helping us realise our ambition in this area.”
David Rice, HSBC’s new Chief AI Officer, said, “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.”
