Lloyds Banking Group has unveiled plans to add over 1,000 new positions focused on artificial intelligence during 2026. The move is designed to strengthen the bank’s capabilities in advanced, autonomous AI systems known as agentic AI. Recruitment is already underway for nearly 300 specialist roles in this area. These positions will be filled through both internal opportunities and external hiring.
The openings cover data and AI scientists, engineers, professionals dedicated to responsible AI practices, and managers who oversee AI product development. The aim is to grow teams that design, build, and roll out agentic AI solutions throughout the organization’s operations.
More than 700 current colleagues are already contributing to the development of practical AI applications.
This latest drive will significantly expand that foundation.To prepare its workforce of around 67,000 people, Lloyds launched a dedicated AI Academy in January.
Colleagues have since completed more than 400,000 courses through the programme.
The academy offers tailored training that includes interactive modules, workshops, and live demonstrations suited to different roles — from everyday users to technical specialists and senior leaders.
Separately, over 65,000 colleagues have finished specific training on using AI responsibly and safely. The bank has also expanded its Data and AI Summer School, which now features more than 250 sessions.
These combine self-directed learning, live discussions, and practical workshops to help staff apply AI skills in real business situations.
A new Level 6 apprenticeship scheme in AI Engineering is another key element. This year, 33 apprentices are joining the programme — one of the first of its kind offered by a major UK bank.
Participants gain hands-on experience while working toward a formal qualification.
These initiatives are already delivering measurable results. Generative AI contributed around £50 million in value to the group last year.
The bank expects more than £100 million in additional benefits during 2026 as it extends its position in the field. Customer-facing tools are advancing in parallel.
An AI financial assistant is now available to more than 500,000 Bank of Scotland customers.
New AI agents that analyze payments in real time to help detect and prevent suspected fraud have also been introduced.
Sharon Doherty, Chief People and Places Officer, said AI is becoming increasingly central to how the group supports customers and how colleagues work.
She stressed that the priority is ensuring the technology delivers practical benefits — helping staff make better decisions and enabling faster, more personalized customer support — while keeping AI accessible and used responsibly.
One of the new apprentices, Emma Richards, described the programme as an opportunity to build software engineering skills while learning how AI can support daily operations.
She noted that applying this learning in a real business setting, with guidance from experienced colleagues, will help develop confidence in using these tools responsibly to improve ways of working.
All roles and training programs are being rolled out across Lloyds’ UK hubs. By investing in specialist talent, practical tools, and widespread upskilling, the group aims to embed AI more deeply across its operations to improve efficiency for colleagues and service quality for customers.
