AI Strategy and Execution Lead

About Westpac New Zealand

Westpac New Zealand is committed to advancing the future of banking through innovation in data, digital technologies, and artificial intelligence. Their newly formed Data, Digital & AI unit unites exceptional talent to harness AI for improved customer, community, and employee outcomes.

Role Overview

The AI Strategy and Execution Lead is a pivotal leadership position reporting directly to the Chief Data, Digital & AI Officer. This role is responsible for spearheading Westpac's enterprise AI strategy, defining its adoption, governance, and scalability within one of New Zealand’s most trusted institutions. The role demands translating strategic goals into actionable AI roadmaps and overseeing initiatives from conception through to measurable delivery and organizational integration.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive the execution of the company’s AI strategy by developing practical priorities, operating models, and roadmaps.
• Oversee and govern the enterprise-wide AI, data, and automation initiative pipeline ensuring optimal investment allocation.
• Identify high-impact AI and automation opportunities enhancing customer experiences, efficiency, and growth.
• Manage end-to-end delivery of complex AI projects from discovery through deployment and adoption.
• Advise on AI technology, vendor partnerships, and ecosystem strategies with decisions on build, buy, or partner approaches.
• Ensure responsible AI application by embedding governance, risk, privacy, and security throughout AI lifecycles.
• Collaborate with learning and change management teams to enhance organizational AI literacy and confidence.
• Lead strategic participation in governance forums, investment discussions, and enterprise transformation efforts.

Success Indicators

• Creation of actionable AI roadmaps that deliver tangible business outcomes.
• Realization of measurable benefits from AI, automation, and analytics projects across the enterprise.
• Strong alignment on AI priorities and governance enterprise-wide.
• Advancement of AI maturity, data foundation strength, and scalable delivery capabilities.
• Improved AI understanding, confidence, and ethical practices in the organization.

Candidate Profile

• A forward-thinking leader balancing strategic vision with hands-on execution.
• Experience in AI, data analytics, digital transformation, technology strategy, or innovation leadership.
• Demonstrated success in senior leadership roles within large, complex organizations.
• Proven ability to deliver enterprise-level AI, data, or technology strategies.
• Deep knowledge of AI, generative AI, analytics, automation, and emerging tech trends.
• Skilled in managing large-scale, cross-disciplinary programs and influencing senior stakeholders.
• Strong commercial insight with the ability to prioritize initiatives by value and risk considerations.
• Expertise working within governance, risk management, regulatory, and compliance environments.
• A collaborative and inclusive leader who fosters talent and diverse perspectives.

Why Work at Westpac New Zealand

• Play a defining role in how AI shapes banking experiences for customers and staff.
• Join a newly minted executive division focused on accelerating innovation and maximising data, digital, and AI potential.
• Be part of a culturally rich environment that values individuality, inclusivity, and empowerment.
• Benefit from comprehensive workplace advantages including 4 weeks annual leave plus wellbeing leave, additional purchased leave options, banking and insurance perks, career development programs, generous parental leave, school holiday subsidies, and volunteer days.

Diversity and Inclusion

Westpac New Zealand champions a diverse workforce and encourages applications from all societal groups, including neurodiverse individuals and those with disabilities. The organization values attitude, passion, and potential equally alongside qualifications and experience.

Application Details

Applicants are invited to submit their CV and cover letter. The application deadline is 3 August 2026.