Principal Engineer in London

As the Change Execution Director for AI and Data in Credit Risk, you will be a senior leader responsible for driving the successful implementation of our most critical artificial intelligence and machine learning initiatives. You will oversee the end‑to‑end delivery of programs that embed AI/ML models and advanced data analytics into our core credit risk decisioning and management processes. This strategic role requires a blend of program management discipline, a sophisticated understanding of the AI/ML lifecycle, and deep expertise in the credit risk domain. You will act as the key bridge between data science, technology, business, and control functions to ensure changes are delivered responsibly and effectively.

What’s on Offer

• Hybrid Working – we understand that employee expectations and preferences are changing. We have implemented a model that enables eligible employees to work remotely for a part of their working time and reach a working pattern that works for them.
• Competitive salary and non‑contributory pension.
• 30 days’ holiday plus bank holidays, with the option to purchase additional days.
• Life Assurance and Private Healthcare for you and your family.
• A range of flexible benefits including Retail Discounts, a Bike4Work scheme and Gym benefits.
• The opportunity to support a wide ranging CSR programme + 2 days’ volunteering leave per year.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and drive the execution of complex, cross‑functional programs focused on the deployment and adoption of AI/ML models and advanced analytics in the credit risk domain.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with senior managers across Credit Risk, Data Science, Model Risk Management, Technology, and Operations to ensure alignment on AI strategy and execution.
• Conduct thorough assessments of how new AI models and data platforms will impact existing risk management frameworks, processes, and systems.
• Develop comprehensive implementation and transition plans.
• Establish robust governance for AI/ML projects, ensuring adherence to model risk management policies, regulatory requirements, and ethical AI principles.
• Provide clear reporting on progress, risks, and model performance to executive committees.
• Partner with business and data science teams to define, track, and realise the intended benefits of AI initiatives, such as improved risk accuracy, operational efficiency, and new business insights.
• Lead and mentor a team of project and change managers, fostering a culture of excellence in delivering transformative AI‑driven change.

Skills and Experience

• Extensive experience running large‑scale change programs within financial services, with a proven track record of delivering complex AI, data science, or quantitative analytics projects.
• Deep subject‑matter expertise in credit risk management, the end‑to‑end credit lifecycle, and an understanding of related regulations (e.g., model risk management).
• Strong understanding of the AI/ML model lifecycle, from development and validation to deployment, monitoring, and governance.
• Exceptional communication and influencing skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts to non-technical executive stakeholders.
• Expertise in program management methodologies and applying them to the unique challenges of AI and data science projects.

How we’ll support you

• Training and development to help you excel in your career.
• Flexible working to assist you balance your personal priorities.
• Coaching and support from experts in your team.
• A culture of continuous learning to aid progression.

Equal Opportunities & Inclusion

We value diversity and as an equal opportunities’ employer, we make reasonable adjustments for those with a disability such as the provision of assistive equipment if required (e.g. screen readers, assistive hearing devices, adapted keyboards). If you have a disability, health condition, or require any adjustments during the application process, we encourage you to contact our Adjustments Concierge to discuss. We welcome applications from all people and promote a positive, fair and inclusive work environment.