AI Strategy and Execution Lead

JobsCloseBy Editorial Insights

Westpac New Zealand is hiring an AI Strategy and Execution Lead to translate strategic priorities into a concrete AI roadmap, operating model and a portfolio of high value AI, automation and data initiatives. You will lead end to end delivery from concept to adoption, shape the enterprise pipeline and embed responsible AI governance, privacy and risk practices across the lifecycle. The role sits at the intersection of strategy, technology and business transformation, requiring strong collaboration with Product, Engineering, Risk, Compliance, Legal, Privacy, Security and Change teams. To apply, tailor your CV and cover letter to show senior leadership in large organisations, a proven track record delivering enterprise AI programs, and the ability to prioritise by value and risk with measurable outcomes. Applications close 3 August 2026.

Kia ora. Welcome to greater opportunity

At Westpac New Zealand, we're building the future of banking through data, digital innovation and artificial intelligence. As part of our newly created Data, Digital & AI (DDAI) function, we're bringing together exceptional people to help 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're 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'd love to hear from you.

Mō te tūranga | About the role

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.

What you'll be responsible for

• 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.

What success looks like

You'll help create:

• 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.

What we're looking for

• We're looking for a visionary leader who combines strategic thinking with practical execution.
• You may have experience in AI, data, digital, analytics, technology strategy, transformation or innovation leadership. Most importantly, you'll know how to bring people together around a shared vision and turn complex ideas into meaningful business outcomes.
• You'll bring:
• 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.

Why join Westpac?

• This is more than a leadership role. It's an opportunity to help shape how one of New Zealand's largest organisations uses AI to create better experiences for customers, support colleagues and contribute to the future of banking.
• You'll join a newly established executive function with a mandate to accelerate innovation and unlock the full value of data, digital and AI capabilities across the enterprise.
• The people of Aotearoa, New Zealand hail from many cultures and backgrounds. At Westpac New Zealand, we draw on this enormous talent pool to cultivate a team rich in ability and empowered to reach its full potential. Our aim is to be brave challengers, celebrating our differences and relentlessly advocating for our customers. It starts with us – we believe that when we care deeply and do our best for our people, they’ll do their best for our customers. 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.

Westpac Hei Wāhi Mahi | Working at Westpac

Immersing yourself in a supportive team environment, and receive some of the best banking, and lifestyle benefits in the market along with:

• 4 weeks standard holiday + 5 additional days of wellbeing leave to support you to be your best
• Additional purchased leave options up to 4 weeks per year
• Banking benefits, insurance discounts and superannuation scheme
• Career growth – we promote internal capability; we have programmes that recognise star performers
• Generous parental leave – and top up government paid parental leave
• School holiday subsidy - help you balance work and family during school holiday
• 2 Volunteer days per year

Ko mātou tēnei | Our Organisation

At Westpac, we’re working together to build a fairer and stronger New Zealand for our people, customers, and communities. For over 160 years we’ve been driven by our purpose to Create Better Futures Together.

What makes us unique are the incredible people we’re lucky enough to have walk through our doors every day. The giant ‘W’ on our building doesn’t just stand for Westpac – it says, double you. We’re a place that values, rewards and recognises individuality. Where you can be your whole self, your true self, and your best self. We’re recognised as a place where talent is developed, where passions are fuelled and where ambitions of all shapes and sizes thrive. And it all starts with you!

Ready to help shape the future of AI at Westpac?  Tono mai ināianei! | Apply now.

Together Greater. Nau mai ki te angitū nui ake.

Ko mātou tēnei | Our Organisation
At Westpac, we’re working together to build a fairer and stronger New Zealand for our people, customers, and communities. For over 160 years we’ve been driven by our purpose to Create Better Futures Together.

What makes us unique are the incredible people we’re lucky enough to have walk through our doors every day. The giant ‘W’ on our building doesn’t just stand for Westpac – it says, double you. We’re a place that values, rewards and recognises individuality. Where you can be your whole self, your true self, and your best self. We’re recognised as a place where talent is developed, where passions are fuelled and where ambitions of all shapes and sizes thrive. And it all starts with you!

Tono mai ināianei! | Apply Now!

Apply today with your CV and Cover Letter. 

The people of Aotearoa, New Zealand hail from many cultures and backgrounds. At Westpac New Zealand, we draw on this enormous talent pool to cultivate a team rich in ability and empowered to reach its full potential. Our aim is to be brave challengers, celebrating our differences and relentlessly advocating for our customers. It starts with us – we believe that when we care deeply and do our best for our people, they’ll do their best for our customers. 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. 

Mahi tahi tātou, kaha ake tātou | Together Greater

Applications close: