Lloyds Banking Group is looking to ensure its use of artificial intelligence (AI) is safe and ethical for customers by creating a head of responsible AI role.

Academic Dr Magdalena Lis, who has a Ph.D from the Centre for Language Technology at the University of Copenhagen and has more than 15 years’ experience in AI, has been appointed to the role.

Her appointment comes as the bank looks to bolster its AI expertise, which includes 200 specialists in its AI Centre of Excellence, who between them have 30 PhDs.

The bank said that in her newly created role she will “focus on leveraging next-generation technology to enhance Lloyds Banking Group's products and services while implementing necessary safeguards and controls”.

During her career Lis has advised the UK government on responsible AI and was most recently head of analytics and data science at Toyota Connected Europe.

Her 12 peer reviewed publications includes research on transparency in AI systems.

“AI represents a big opportunity for Lloyds Banking Group and I’m excited to be a part of the business,” said Lis.

She added: “The opportunity to work with a broad range of industry experts, made the role very attractive. I’m looking forward to working towards unlocking the benefits of AI for Lloyds Banking Group and its customers.”

The banking group’s director of AI and advanced analytics Dr Rohit Dhawan said: “Artificial intelligence has the potential to transform banking and we’re investing and recruiting at pace to lead the way.

“While we continue to push the boundaries of GenAI to enhance our products and services for customers, it’s vital that we have the appropriate safeguards in place to ensure the technology is implemented ethically and safely.

“Magdalena will be instrumental to our transformation, bringing a wealth of experience in AI, and I look forward to working together.”

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