AI Strategy and Execution Lead

About the role Kia ora. Welcome to greater opportunity at Westpac New Zealand; we are building the future of banking through data, digital innovation and artificial intelligence. As part of our newly created Data, Digital & AI (DDAI) function, we bring together exceptional people to shape how AI creates better outcomes for our customers, communities and colleagues. This is a rare opportunity to step into one of the most influential AI leadership roles in New Zealand. Reporting to the Chief Data, Digital & AI Officer, you will lead the execution of Westpac’s enterprise AI strategy and help define how AI is adopted, governed and scaled across one of New Zealand’s largest and most trusted organisations. If you are passionate about turning AI ambition into real‑world impact and want to help shape the future of responsible AI in a highly regulated environment, we would love to hear from you. As the AI Strategy and Execution Lead, you will partner with executives and senior leaders across the organisation to translate strategic priorities into a clear AI roadmap, operating model and portfolio of high‑value AI, automation and data initiatives. You will help Westpac identify where AI can create the greatest value, ensure investments are prioritised effectively, and drive delivery from concept through to adoption and measurable outcomes. This role sits at the intersection of strategy, technology, governance and business transformation. You will work closely with Product, Engineering, Risk, Compliance, Legal, Privacy, Security, Data, People and Change teams to enable AI adoption that is safe, responsible and aligned with our values. Responsibilities Leading the execution of Westpac’s enterprise AI strategy and translating vision into practical priorities, roadmaps and operating models. Shaping and governing the enterprise pipeline of AI, data and automation opportunities to ensure the right initiatives receive investment and support. Identifying and scaling high‑value AI and intelligent automation opportunities that improve customer outcomes, productivity and growth. Leading end‑to‑end delivery of complex AI initiatives from discovery through deployment, adoption and value realisation. Influencing AI technology, vendor and ecosystem strategies, including build, buy and partner decisions. Embedding responsible AI, governance, privacy, security and risk practices across the AI lifecycle. Partnering with learning and change teams to build AI capability, literacy and confidence across the organisation. Providing strategic leadership across governance forums, investment decisions and enterprise‑wide transformation initiatives. Success looks like A clear and actionable AI roadmap delivering measurable business outcomes. Tangible value from AI, automation and analytics initiatives across the business. Strong enterprise alignment on AI priorities, governance and delivery decisions. Increased AI maturity, stronger data foundations and a scalable delivery capability. Improved AI literacy, confidence and responsible AI practices across Westpac. Requirements Significant senior leadership experience within complex, large‑scale organisations. A proven track record delivering enterprise‑wide AI, data, technology or automation strategies. Strong understanding of AI, generative AI, analytics, automation and emerging technology trends. Experience leading large cross‑functional programmes and influencing senior stakeholders. Strong commercial acumen and the ability to prioritise competing opportunities based on value and risk. Experience working with governance, risk, regulatory and compliance frameworks. A collaborative, inclusive leadership style that brings out the best in others. Benefits 4 weeks standard holiday plus 5 additional wellbeing days. Additional purchased leave options up to 4 weeks per year. Banking benefits, insurance discounts and superannuation scheme. Career growth – internal capability promotion and recognition programmes. Generous parental leave with top‑up of government paid parental leave. School holiday subsidy to help balance work and family during school holidays. 2 volunteer days per year. EEO Statement We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, including those who are neurodiverse, have chronic health conditions or disabilities – your attitude and passion are as important to us as your experience, qualifications and capabilities. Even if your experience doesn’t meet every requirement listed, we encourage you to apply. We value potential, curiosity, learning agility and the unique perspectives that help us challenge thinking and create better solutions. Applications close: 3 August 2026. #J-18808-Ljbffr