Who are we? At Finastra, we are a dynamic global provider of open finance software solutions, dedicated to expanding access to financial services. Our innovative applications span Lending, Payments, Treasury and Capital Markets, and Universal Banking. Proudly serving over 8,000 customers, including 45 of the world's top 50 banks, we aim to boost financial inclusion for all. Join us and be part of a vibrant company that embraces diverse perspectives, and is committed to doing well by doing good. Overview The Director of AI & Innovation for Finastra’s Universal Banking Group is a strategic leadership role focused on AI strategy development. This role requires defining and working with the teams to implement the AI strategy aligned with business objectives, identifying opportunities to enhance efficiency, customer experience and revenue streams. It will require embedding AI, machine learning, and emerging technologies into the next generation of core banking, lending, and payments solutions. Define and execute the AI innovation roadmap, leading cross-functional initiatives that transform traditional banking products into intelligent, data-driven, and customer-centric platforms. Working at the intersection of product strategy, data science, and regulatory technology, the Director will spearhead the development of scalable AI capabilities—ranging from intelligent automation to predictive insights—while ensuring responsible and ethical AI adoption. This role will also serve as a key evangelist, partnering with internal stakeholders, clients, and fintech partners to drive Finastra’s vision of open, intelligent finance. Key Responsibilities AI Strategy & Innovation Leadership Define and lead the AI & innovation roadmap for Universal Banking products, including Essence, Digital, Analytics, and Payments platforms. Champion the adoption of AI/ML across product lines to deliver intelligent automation, predictive analytics, smart decisioning, risk modeling, and customer personalization. Drive adoption of AI initiatives in the business unit. Work closely with the Finastra Data team, Innovation Office, and cloud teams to scale use of generative AI and large language models (LLMs) in core banking applications. Product Development & Experimentation Collaborate with product managers, data scientists, and engineers to conceptualize, prototype, and commercialize AI-powered features Lead agile innovation cycles (ideation, proof of concept, MVP, go-to-market) with measurable business outcomes. Architect scalable AI/ML platforms and infrastructure, working on the pricing and regulatory aspects of AI solutions. Data Strategy & Responsible AI Establish a scalable, ethical data framework for training and deploying AI models, aligned with data privacy, explainability, and model governance standards. Ensure AI deployments meet industry and regulatory requirements, particularly in high-stakes areas such as credit scoring, KYC, AML, and customer interactions. Stakeholder Engagement & Thought Leadership Serve as an internal evangelist for AI innovation—engaging with senior leaders, clients, and partners to promote understanding of emerging technologies and their practical application in universal banking. Represent Finastra in external forums, conferences, and consortiums related to AI in financial services. Required Qualifications 10+ years in product innovation, data science, or technology strategy roles, with at least 3–5 years focused on AI/ML in financial services. Proven experience delivering AI solutions in banking or fintech, ideally across core banking, lending, or payments. Strong understanding of modern AI/ML architectures, cloud platforms (e.g., Azure, AWS), and generative AI frameworks. Ability to lead cross-functional innovation teams and manage AI product development lifecycle—from ideation to launch. Experience working in or with regulated financial environments; understanding of responsible AI principles. Bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, data science, or a related field; advanced degree preferred. Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with Core Banking platforms. Understanding of tools like TensorFlow, PyTorch, Azure AI Studio, and familiarity with cloud platforms and big data technologies. Knowledge of MLOps, predictive modeling, and high performance computing infrastructures Experience leading strategic partnerships with fintechs, academic institutions, or AI startups. Strategic thinking and problem solving to drive innovation and practical business and customer needs Understanding of regulatory requirements like GDPR, EU AI Act, California AI Act etc. Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, including executive-level presentations We are proud to offer a range of incentives to our employees worldwide. These benefits are available to everyone, regardless of grade, and reflect the values we uphold: · Flexibility: Enjoy unlimited vacation, based on your location and business priorities. Hybrid working arrangements, and inclusive policies such as paid time off for voting, bereavement, and sick leave. · Well-being: Access Confidential one-on-one therapy through our Employee Assistance Program, find support from our network of Wellbeing Champions and Gather Groups, and a calendar of monthly events and initiatives designed to help you thrive - Inside and Outside of work. · Medical, life & disability insurance, retirement plan, lifestyle and other benefits* · ESG: Benefit from paid time off for volunteering and donation matching. · DEI: Participate in multiple DE&I groups for open involvement (e.g., Count Me In, Culture@Finastra, Proud@Finastra, Disabilities@Finastra, Women@Finastra). · Career Development: Access online learning and accredited courses through our Skills & Career Navigator tool. · Recognition: Be part of our global recognition program, Finastra Celebrates, and contribute to regular employee surveys to help shape Finastra and foster a culture where everyone is engaged and empowered to perform at their best. *Specific benefits may vary by location. At Finastra, each individual is unique, bringing their own ideas, thoughts, cultural beliefs, backgrounds, and experiences together. We learn from one another, embrace and celebrate our differences, and create an environment where everyone feels safe to be themselves. Be unique, be exceptional, and help us make a difference at Finastra! At Finastra, our team members are the driving force behind everything we do. We’re building an environment where bold ideas thrive, careers flourish, and innovation is a shared journey. Whether you're a recent graduate ready to shape the future or a seasoned professional seeking your next challenge, you’ll play a pivotal role in delivering software solutions that redefine what’s possible in financial services. We believe growth is a shared commitment. That’s why we offer a rich ecosystem of learning—from hands-on training and mentorship to leadership development and industry certifications. You’ll have the freedom to explore new paths, deepen your expertise, and make your mark in a global fintech that’s built for the future. Our career development isn’t just a program—it’s a promise. With access to cutting-edge tools, a culture of collaboration, and a community that champions your success, you’ll be empowered to lead, challenge, and create meaningful change. Because when we grow together, we innovate together—and that’s how we shape what’s next in finance. We offer incredible career opportunities and your work in close collaboration with fantastic colleagues globally to develop and launch innovative software solutions for our customers. There is a huge range of engaging projects where you can get stuck-in and add value whilst taking advantage of our ongoing development opportunities to build and hone your skills in your chosen area. Our perks include paid holidays, flexible working hours, a pension plan, and comprehensive health initiatives. Join us to supercharge your career, collaborate with industry experts, and thrive in a nurturing environment that powers both your professional and personal growth With us, you can grow, innovate, and make a real impact. At Finastra, we are proud of the wide range of incentives and benefits we offer our employees globally, reflecting our core values: doing well by doing good, putting people first, and open opportunities. We go beyond statutory requirements to maximise our offerings, investing in flexible working policies, personal growth opportunities, and well-being programmes. Highlights include our Flexible Vacation Policy, inclusive people policies, hybrid working framework, and comprehensive well-being support through initiatives like the Employee Assistance Program, the wellbeing Champions and our monthly events and initiatives. Additionally, we emphasise sustainability through volunteering time off and donation matching, champion inclusion through multiple employee networks and cultural initiatives, and invest heavily in career and skills development. Recognition of our employees' efforts is integral, with our global recognition platform and regular employee feedback surveys shaping our inclusive and supportive workplace culture At Finastra, we are committed to creating a workplace where you feel valued and respected. We believe this environment drives innovation and we strive to build a team that reflects the varied backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of our global ecosystem. This philosophy is at the heart of our culture and the way we work.