Director of Data and AI

"Transform data into commercial value and shape the future of AI at Castle Trust Bank." At Castle Trust Bank, we pride ourselves on being a fintech challenger bank, providing specialist property mortgages, retail finance lending and savings accounts to a wide range of customers. We are seeking an experienced and strategic Director of Data & AI to define and deliver the Bank's data and AI strategy, helping turn data into a trusted business asset while enabling the responsible adoption of AI across the organisation. This role is based in Basingstoke, with some travel to London, on a hybrid basis with 3 days in the office and 2 days at home. The Role And What You'll Lead And Deliver Reporting to the Chief Technology & Operations Officer, you will lead the Bank's data and AI agenda, working closely with Executive and Board stakeholders to support growth, innovation and better customer outcomes. Data & AI Leadership

• Define and deliver the Bank's Data & AI strategy aligned to business growth plans
• Lead the development of data platforms, architecture, governance and analytics capabilities
• Drive the adoption of AI across the organisation, delivering measurable business value
• Establish robust governance to ensure data and AI are used responsibly within a regulated environment
• Provide strategic insight and management information to support decision-making across the Bank
• Lead and develop a high-performing data function, spanning data engineering, governance, business intelligence and analytics. Essential What you'll bring
• Significant leadership experience in Data, Analytics or AI within financial services or a similarly regulated environment
• Proven experience delivering data strategy, data platform modernisation and analytics capabilities
• Strong understanding of data governance, AI governance and regulatory expectations
• Ability to translate technical capability into clear commercial outcomes
• Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills at Executive and Board level
• Strong leadership capability with experience building and developing teams. Why join Castle Trust Bank? As well as taking on a high-profile leadership role, you'll have the opportunity to shape how data and AI support the Bank's future growth, influence strategic investment decisions and play a key role in our ongoing technology transformation. In addition, you will receive:
• Competitive salary
• Annual performance bonus (up to 25% of base salary, based on individual and company performance)
• Generous contributory pension through Hargreaves Lansdown
• Life Assurance
• 28 days' holiday + option to buy/sell 5 days
• Additional paid volunteering day
• Private healthcare through BUPA
• Free access to BHSF Rise EAP to support colleague health and wellbeing
• Gym discounts
• Season ticket travel loans (if applicable)
• A supportive, inclusive culture where your work has real impact Caught your attention?