London-headquartered Standard Chartered has appointed David Hardoon as global head of artificial intelligence (AI) enablement.

The bank said the move reinforces its commitment to using advanced analytics and AI to “drive innovation and maintain its competitive edge” in the financial services industry.

Hardoon will be responsible for building robust AI capabilities and governance within the Chief Data Office.

He will also promote data analytics and identify opportunities across the bank where AI can add significant value, streamline processes, and deliver impactful client experiences.

The move follows the bank's launch of a new workforce genAI tool across 41 markets worldwide last month.

The new tool, which is being rolled out to over 70,000 employees around the world, aims to improve productivity and operations, as well as tailor sales and marketing efforts to boost revenue.

Standard Chartered plans to expand the tool across a further 10 markets over the next few months.

The AI-driven rollout is not the first for the organisation in recent months, with the bank launching an AI-powered video column in February for clients in Asia to provide better insights on the foreign exchange market.

Called ‘Standard Chartered wealth management FX intelligent expert’, the column uses advanced AI technology deployed in collaboration with the London Stock Exchange Group (LSEG).

Hardoon will be based in Singapore, where he will report to group chief data officer Mohammed Rahim.

The new AI enablement head has 22 years experience in technology, with a background in leading data and AI across banking, advisory, government, and education.

He played a key role in developing the AI strategy for the Monetary Authority of Singapore through promoting open, cross-border data flows and the adoption of data and AI in accordance with the Fairness, Ethics, Accountability and Transparency (FEAT) principles across the country's financial sector.

"As a senior and strategic hire for the Chief Data Office, David will play a critical role in shaping and driving our AI strategy and ambitions, ensuring that we harness the full potential of AI technologies to enhance our client-focused, data-driven services and operations," said Mohammed Rahim. "Given our people-approach to AI, I am confident his leadership will enable us to responsibly leverage AI to deepen our client relationships and further strengthen our ability to meet their cross-border needs.”

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