Iress welcomes Chief AI Officer to spearhead renewed strategy

Iress has already delivered on one of its half-year promises to invest in its data and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, with Daniel Ashley to take on the newly created role of Chief AI Officer.

Ashley will spearhead a “cross-functional” team charged with developing and harnessing Iress’ AI expertise to elevate product performance, automate workflows and uncover enhanced insights for its financial advice and investment management clients.

As confirmed by the fintech’s half-year financial results released to the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) on Monday, Ashley will be responsible for “embedding AI more deeply into the business”, implementing AI-powered solutions across the firm’s range of products, services and internal operations.

“We’re pleased to welcome someone of Dan’s calibre to Iress at a pivotal time for the business. His proven track record in leading AI-driven transformation in financial services and at AWS will help accelerate our efforts to embed AI at the centre of our innovation strategy,” Iress’ Chief Operating Officer, Justin Schmitt, said.

“AI represents a significant growth opportunity for Iress, enabling us to deliver faster, smarter and more scalable outcomes for our clients.”

Ashley boasts a wealth of expertise in AI, machine learning and data strategy, with a history of spearheading “high-impact AI transformations” and originating innovative technology solutions for a range of global financial services firms. His most recent role was AI/Machine Learning and Data Specialist for Enterprise Accounts at Amazon Web Services, and has also held senior digital transformation roles at Westpac and the Commonwealth Bank of Australia.

“I’m excited to be joining Iress at a time of significant opportunity. AI has the potential to redefine financial technology and deliver real, measurable value for Iress’ clients, people and shareholders,” Ashley said.

“I look forward to working with the team to turn that potential into results.”

Ashley commenced in his new role on 4 August in Sydney.