Redefining Data ROI in Banking: Luke Pearce, Chief Data and AI Officer, Santander UK

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On this week's episode of Data & AI Mastery, Luke Pearce, Chief Data and AI Officer at Santander UK, joins Dr. Raoul-Gabriel Urma to discuss what it actually takes to drive meaningful AI adoption inside one of the UK's largest banks.

Luke shares how Santander UK moved beyond a governance-heavy data culture to build genuine C-suite and board-level sponsorship for AI. He challenges the conventional cost-saving narrative around AI ROI, making the case for customer and colleague delight as the more powerful North Star.

The conversation covers how Santander UK structured its AI rollout using a domain-based approach, why cross-functional teams are critical to success, and how to have productive governance conversations with a board that is both excited and cautious about AI.

Luke also offers a genuinely contrarian view on the future of the CDO role and what he would change about the industry if he could.

A practical and candid episode for any senior data or AI leader navigating organisational complexity.

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Chapter Markers

(00:00) - Introduction and Luke Pearce's Career Journey

(04:51) - How Industry Experience Shapes Data Expectations

(07:24) - Organisational Structures That Support Data and AI

(10:19) - Redefining AI ROI Beyond Cost Reduction

(14:13) - Board and C-Suite Expectations: Navigating the Difference

(18:25) - Lessons for Organisations Just Starting Their AI Journey

(22:29) - Picking the Right Domains and Managing AI Momentum

(26:21) - Quickfire Round: Contrarian Views and Personal Insights

(30:13) - Episode Wrap-Up and Key Takeaways

Useful Links

Connect with Luke Pearce on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/luke-pearce-23121522

Follow Raoul for more AI insights on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raoulurma/

Explore Cambridge Spark’s AI upskilling programmes at https://www.cambridgespark.com