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.

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.

• 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.

• 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.

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.

• 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 (up to maximum of 30 days' per year)
• 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