Lloyds Banking Group has hired Magdalena Lis as head of artificial intelligence (AI), effective 3 February.

Lis brings over 15 years of experience in AI and joins the financial institution from Toyota Connected Europe, where she held the position of head of analytics and data science for more than three years.

Prior to that, Lis was an advisor on responsible AI at the UK Government’s centre for data ethics and innovation, with tasks including advising the UK government on responsible innovation in data-driven technologies.

From 2017 to 2020, she held senior positions at AI- focused companies such as Factmata, where she was responsible for machine learning and data, and speechintelligence.com, where she was responsible for speech analytics.

In her new role, Lis will focus on leveraging next-generation technology to improve Lloyds Banking Group's products and services, while implementing necessary safeguards and controls.

The financial institution has also recently expanded its AI team with the appointment of Rohit Dhawan as Director of AI and Advanced Analytics in August 2024.

Lloyds Banking Group's AI Centre of Excellence now comprises more than 200 specialists, with more than 30 PhDs in relevant fields, the bank said in a statement.

Dhawan commented on Lloyds’ efforts to grow capabilities in the AI arena: “While we continue to push the boundaries of GenAI to enhance our products and services for customers, it’s vital that we have the appropriate safeguards in place to ensure the technology is implemented ethically and safely.”

Commenting on Lis’ appointment, he added: “Magdalena will be instrumental to our transformation, bringing a wealth of experience in AI, and I look forward to working together.”

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