Head of Responsible AI and AI Strategy at NatWest Bank, Amazon’s Top 10 Bestselling Co-Author of “Governing the Machine”, Ethics Board Co-Chair & AI Researcher
Paul Dongha’s Biography:
Dr Paul Dongha is a pioneering figure in the transformational potential of artificial intelligence, with a career spanning more than 30 years across academia, global banking and technology strategy. As Head of Responsible AI and AI Strategy at one of the UK’s largest banks, he leads enterprise-wide AI governance frameworks designed to balance innovation with regulatory compliance and ethical guardrails. A recognised AI policy expert, Paul works alongside the UK Competition and Markets Authority, the Prudential Regulation Authority, the Financial Conduct Authority and the UK Government.
Paul began his career in academia at the University of Manchester, serving as a Research Associate and later Teaching Associate. His PhD thesis in Agentic AI in the 1990s positioned him ahead of the curve in understanding autonomous intelligent systems. He subsequently moved into financial services technology, holding senior risk and systems roles at ABN AMRO Bank and Standard Bank before joining HSBC, where he served as Head of Derivatives Product Control and later IT Project Manager for the Finance Transformation Programme.
He continued his leadership trajectory at Commerzbank as IT Director before moving to Credit Suisse, where he held senior global programme roles overseeing IT risk systems and transformation initiatives. Returning to HSBC as Climate Risk IT Programme Manager, he later joined Fujitsu Research of Europe as AI Ethics Principal Researcher. In 2022, he became Group Head of Data and AI Ethics at Lloyds Banking Group, shaping enterprise AI governance in one of the UK’s most regulated sectors.
Paul’s work has been published in outlets including The AI Journal, The Green Business Journal, Business Reporter, the Evident AI Responsible AI Report, Irish Tech News and CIO Business World Magazine. In 2025, he co-authored ‘Governing the Machine: How to Navigate the Risks of AI and Unlock its True Potential‘, published by Bloomsbury Business and named in the Amazon top 10 bestsellers in two categories as well as the Financial Times top five Business Books of the Month. Through his writing and speaking, he provides evidence-led guidance on deploying AI responsibly within complex regulatory environments.
Why Hire Paul Dongha?
Dr Paul Dongha is hired as a speaker for his rare blend of academic depth, regulatory engagement and frontline banking leadership in artificial intelligence. With decades of experience designing and governing AI systems within highly regulated financial institutions, he provides practical insight into responsible AI strategy, risk management and compliance frameworks.
As co-author of Governing the Machine and an adviser working alongside UK regulators and government bodies, Paul delivers authoritative perspectives on how organisations can unlock AI’s commercial value while operating within ethical and legal guardrails. He equips boards, risk leaders and technology teams with structured approaches to deploying AI safely, transparently and strategically.
Paul Dongha’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Paul Dongha’s impressive career:
- 2025 – Co-authored Governing the Machine, named an Amazon top 10 bestseller in two categories and a Financial Times top five Business Book of the Month.
- 2024 – Spoke at The AI Summit London, sharing insights on responsible AI governance in financial services.
- 2022 – Appointed Group Head of Data and AI Ethics at Lloyds Banking Group, leading enterprise AI governance strategy.
- 2021 – Served as AI Ethics Principal Researcher at Fujitsu Research of Europe, focusing on responsible AI frameworks.
- 2021 – Held the role of Climate Risk IT Programme Manager at HSBC, overseeing technology transformation in climate risk.
- 2016 – Served as IT Director and Global Programme Manager at Credit Suisse, leading global transformation initiatives.
- 2011 – Appointed IT Director at Commerzbank, overseeing enterprise technology programmes.
- 2008 – Led the Finance Transformation Programme at HSBC as IT Project Manager.
- 2003 – Appointed Head of Credit Risk Systems at ABN AMRO Bank, managing enterprise risk platforms.
Videos
Paul Dongha’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Paul’s ability to break down complex topics into clear, actionable insights was truly impressive. Dr. Dongha’s presentation was a highlight of the event, reflecting his status as a leading authority in his field.” – Myrto, Executive Producer, Marcusevans.com 2024
“Dr Paul Dongha was a stellar speaker at the AI for Business Summit Latam in Bogota in July 2025… in front of an executive audience full of Latam corporate leadership… If you are looking for a worldwide expert in Responsible AI, AI Ethics and Sustainability, look no further.” – Diego, General Director, Practical, 2025
“Paul’s appearances at events like The AI Summit New York and London have consistently elevated the discourse.. As a speaker, Paul is exemplary.. his presentations and panel contributions are marked by thoughtful, practical insights that deftly balance innovation with responsible AI frameworks.” – Evelina, Lead Producer, Informa – The AI Summit London, 2034 and 2024
“His ability to highlight where the industry should be moving towards and sharing valuable insights allowed the audience to become eager to answer questions.. Paul can initiate ideas and present complex concepts in an understandable manner.” – Zaynah, Conference Producer – Wealth Management & Private Banking and AI Portfolios 2025
“Dr Dongha delivered a compelling and thought-provoking presentation on ‘Generative AI: Mitigating and Managing Ethical Risks.’ His in-depth knowledge of the intersection between AI technologies and ethical considerations was evident throughout his talk. Not only did he provide a clear and accessible breakdown of the risks involved, but he also offered actionable insights on how businesses can address these challenges while ensuring responsible AI deployment.” – Satvik, Project Head, NexGen Banking Summit 2024
Speaking Topics
Paul Dongha’s Official Keynote Topics:
- How to Create and Operationalise an AI Governance and Compliance Program From Scratch
- How to Mobilise, Create and Set Up Your Organisation’s AI Strategy in Line With Your Overall Business Strategy
- How to Mitigate Against the Most Prevalent Risks of AI
- Preparing Your Workforce for AI – How Do You Ensure Your People Can Create an AI-First Organisation
- Sustainable and Durable AI – How to Navigate the Tension Between Technological Performance and Environmental Sustainability
- What is Agentic AI – Myths and Reality – How to Cut Through the Noise With Technical Realism and Business Acumen
- Artificial General Intelligence, Artificial Super Intelligence – What it Means, When it Might Be Achieved and What That Means for Society
How Much Does Paul Dongha Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Paul Dongha?
The cost of hiring Paul Dongha depends on your event format, audience size, location and duration. For a tailored quote and expert guidance, please contact a London Keynote Speakers Agency booking agent.