Jessica BirdLloyds Banking Group has partnered with education technology firm Cambridge Spark to deliver an advanced artificial intelligence (AI) leadership programme as part of its broader digital transformation strategy.
The collaboration is aimed at equipping more than 200 senior leaders across the organisation with the skills required to drive AI innovation and operational excellence throughout the business.
The bespoke initiative, titled ‘Leading with AI’, is an intensive 80-hour, six-month programme combining in-person sessions, virtual masterclasses and applied projects.
Designed in collaboration with Lloyds Banking Group and academic experts from the University of Cambridge, the course will focus on enabling participants to identify strategic opportunities for AI adoption and lead the implementation of cutting-edge technology to enhance both customer experience and commercial performance.
This initiative followed a successful earlier collaboration between the two organisations, which saw Cambridge Spark deliver a specialised bootcamp for Lloyds Banking Group graduates in data science and engineering.
The programme represents the next stage in Lloyds’ investment in AI and data literacy, which also includes its internal Data & AI Academy, GenAI Masterclasses, and a company-wide Data & AI Summer School.
The ‘Leading with AI’ programme launched on 5th March with an inaugural cohort of 30 senior leaders taking part in a two-day intensive session at the University of Cambridge.
The event featured sessions with experts including Professor Stelios Kavadias, a global authority on innovation and technology management.
Ron van Kemenade, group chief operating officer at Lloyds Banking Group, said: “AI is a game-changer for financial services, and we’re investing to enhance our services with cutting-edge technology.
“The programme with Cambridge Spark will empower our business leaders to further innovate with AI and drive commercial excellence using this transformative technology.
“Our approach to AI is based on integrating it deeply throughout every aspect of our business rather than limiting it to a centralised technical team.
“We’re building on our existing expertise to develop the most AI-capable leadership team in banking.”
Dr Raoul-Gabriel Urma, founder and group CEO of Cambridge Spark, said: “Following the success of our previous collaboration with Lloyds Banking Group, we’re delighted to partner with them on this ambitious AI professional development initiative.
“We’ve worked closely with Lloyds’ team to design this bespoke six-month programme, specifically tailored to complement the Group’s strategic vision as they continue to strengthen their culture of innovation and forward-thinking leadership.
“Advancing AI capabilities represents both the greatest challenge and opportunity for today’s businesses.
“Enhancing these capabilities within senior leadership creates a powerful multiplier effect that drives innovation throughout the organisation.
“We’re excited to support Lloyds Banking Group in this strategic investment.”
