Westpac has hired Dr Andrew McMullan to oversee the bank's data analytics, digital transformation, and artificial intelligence initiatives in a new role as Chief Data, Digital and AI Officer. The appointment is part of Westpac's strategic efforts to integrate data, digital, and AI functions to improve customer experience and empower teams.

McMullan will join the bank in September after nine years at Commonwealth Bank, where he is currently chief data and analytics officer. He holds a PhD in Statistics from the University of Glasgow and brings extensive global experience in developing and scaling digital, data analytics, and AI platforms.

In the new role, McMullan will report directly to Westpac CEO Anthony Miller. The focus of his work will be on the responsible use of data and AI to enhance both customer and employee experiences.

"Andrew’s appointment will accelerate our strategic efforts in data analytics, digital innovation and responsible A," said Miller. "He’s an outstanding executive and thought leader who has successfully transformed data and digital capabilities in leading financial institutions globally. By integrating our data, digital and AI functions under Andrew’s leadership, we aim to become a truly service-centric organisation, improving the customer experience and empowering our teams."

Dr McMullan is expected to build on the foundations established by Westpac's CIO Scott Collary. "Andrew will build on the strong foundations established over the past five years by our CIO Scott Collary. He will work closely with Scott and our executive team as we continue to responsibly leverage data to enrich the customer and employee experience. Andrew’s leadership will also be instrumental in supporting the successful delivery of UNITE," said Miller.