Head of AI Transformation | S5 | Data & AI Domain | London & Milton Keynes

Head of AI Transformation | S5 | Data & AI Domain | London & Milton Keynes

Country: United Kingdom

IT STARTS HERE

Santander (www.santander.com) is evolving from a global, high-impact brand into a technology-driven organisation, and our people are at the heart of this journey. Together, we are driving a customer-centric transformation that values bold thinking, innovation, and the courage to challenge what’s possible.

This is more than a strategic shift. It’s a chance for driven professionals to grow, learn, and make a real difference.

Our mission is to contribute to help more people and businesses prosper. We embrace a strong risk culture and all our professionals at all levels are expected to take a proactive and responsible approach toward risk management.

The Data & AI Domain at Santander is responsible for setting the strategic direction for data, analytics, and artificial intelligence across the organisation. It ensures that data is managed as a trusted enterprise asset and that advanced technologies are applied responsibly, securely, and effectively to create value for customers and the business.

THE DIFFERENCE YOU MAKE

The Data & AI Domain is looking for a Head of AI Transformation based out of London and Milton Keynes.

The Head of AI Transformation is responsible for leading Santander UK’s enterprise-wide adoption of artificial intelligence and advanced analytics to drive business transformation. This role oversees the data science and AI function, ensuring the effective development, deployment, and scaling of AI capabilities across the organisation.

The role holder partners with senior business, technology, risk, and operations leaders to define and execute a strategic AI transformation roadmap aligned to Santander Group priorities and UK business objectives. They are accountable for embedding AI-driven decision-making into core processes, accelerating value creation, and ensuring robust governance, ethical standards, and regulatory compliance across all AI initiatives.

This individual plays a critical leadership role in translating cutting-edge AI capabilities into tangible business outcomes, fostering a culture of innovation, and positioning Santander UK as a leader in responsible AI adoption within the financial services sector.

They are a member of the Data and AI Domain UK Leadership team, are part of the global AI Leadership team and a key influencers of strategic direction for Santander UK We’re shaping the way we work through innovation, cutting-edge technology, collaboration and the freedom to explore new ideas. To succeed in this role, you will be responsible for:

At Santander, your contribution matters. We recognise the difference you make every day, and we make sure you feel valued, supported and rewarded in return.

Here, recognition goes beyond pay. It’s about the pride you feel in your work, the impact you have on customers and communities, and the opportunities you have to grow and thrive — personally and professionally.

Ready to be recognised? It starts with you.

LOCAL COMPLIANCE

At Santander, we’re proud to be an inclusive organisation that provides equal opportunities for everyone — regardless of age, gender, disability, civil status, race, religion or sexual orientation.

We’re committed to creating a recruitment experience that’s accessible, fair and welcoming for all candidates.

We want our people to thrive — at work and at home — while delivering the best outcomes for our customers and supporting each other to grow.

To make this possible, our roles are site-based with a hybrid working pattern, where colleagues are expected to attend the office at least 12 days per month (pro-rata for part-time roles).

When applying, please consider the travel distance, time and cost to your chosen office location(s).

Right to work in the UK

We welcome applications on the understanding that, should you be offered this role, there may be no relocation package available. Santander will pay the employer mandatory government fees that are required to pay in connection with visa sponsorship. You may be liable for your own personal employee immigration and relocation costs.

WHAT TO DO NEXT

If this sounds like a role you are interested in, then please apply.

If there’s anything we can do in the recruitment process to help you achieve your best, get in touch. Whether it’s a copy of our application form in another format or additional assistance, we’re available through email. You can contact us at resourcing@santander.co.uk.

Our people are our greatest strength. Every individual contributes unique perspectives that make us stronger as a team and as an organisation. We’re enabling teams to go beyond by valuing who they are and empowering what they bring.

The following requirements represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities essential for success in this role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

AI Product / Operating Model (Required):

Enterprise transformation enabled by AI (Required):

Technical capability (AI/ML) (Required):

Banking Products and Services (Required):

Cross-functional Collaboration (Required):

Decision Making and Critical Thinking (Required):

Communicating for Impact (Required):

Strategic Thinking (Required):

Team Management (Required):

Education

Undergraduate degree in business or similar related field or substantial and relevant work experience supported by professional certifications/licences (Required)