Paul Dongha

Paul Dongha is a leading authority on artificial intelligence, trusted by senior teams seeking clarity on responsible adoption as AI accelerates across every sector. Known for his calm, practical approach, Paul helps organisations understand how to use intelligent systems safely while still driving meaningful innovation. His work spans technical research, governance design and high level advisory roles, giving him a rare perspective on the risks and opportunities shaping the future of AI. Audiences respond to his ability to explain complex ideas in a clear, grounded way, using real examples drawn from major financial institutions and global technology programmes.

Paul built his expertise on a strong academic foundation, completing a BSc in Computer Science, an MSc in Advanced Computer System Design and a PhD in Artificial Intelligence at the University of Manchester. He began his career in the banking sector, where he quickly became known for his ability to manage complex systems at scale. At ABN AMRO he served as Head of Credit Risk Systems, leading programmes that strengthened the bank’s analytical capability during a period of rapid digital change. He later joined Standard Bank as Programme Manager of Risk, Banking, Treasury and Trade Finance, broadening his exposure to high stakes environments where accuracy, reliability and resilience were essential. These early roles shaped his understanding of how advanced technology intersects with regulation, process and human oversight.

His leadership grew further through senior positions at some of the world’s largest financial institutions. At HSBC he served as Head of Derivatives Product Control, then became IT Project Manager for the Finance Transformation Programme, where he led the creation of a centralised Finance Accounting Rules platform. This work remains one of his most cited achievements, showing his precision in building systems that last. Paul then held IT Director roles at both Commerzbank and Credit Suisse, guiding large scale teams through technological shifts and regulatory challenges. In 2021 he moved into a specialist research role as AI Ethics Principal Researcher at Fujitsu Research of Europe, leading initiatives to reduce bias and discrimination in AI systems, a subject he continues to champion.

Paul is now recognised as one of the UK’s most influential voices in responsible AI. As Head of Data and AI Ethics at Lloyds Banking Group and now Leader of Responsible AI and AI Strategy at NatWest Group, he has shaped governance practices for two of the country’s largest banks. He is also co author of the book Governing the Machine, a work praised for helping leaders navigate AI risk with clarity and confidence. Today Paul shares his knowledge at events across the world, guiding organisations through the practical steps required to build trustworthy systems while staying ahead of technological change. His keynotes help leaders see both the promise and the responsibility that come with AI, equipping them to make informed decisions in a fast moving landscape.

In May 2024 we sat down virtually with Paul Dongha to discuss the ethical principals that are essential for guiding AI use in corporate environments and if AI could ever become more intelligent than humans. Watch our Exclusive Interviews with Paul Dongha on the AI Speakers YouTube Channel.