BBVA names David González to lead AI innovation and serve as chief scientist
BBVA has appointed David González as its chief scientist and head of AI innovation. He will report to Antonio Bravo, who became the bank's AI transformation head in June 2026. Bravo had previously spent a year as global head of data and AI.
BBVA’s decision to name David González as chief scientist and head of AI innovation adds a dedicated scientific leadership layer to its AI transformation work. González will report to Antonio Bravo, who assumed the bank’s AI transformation leadership post in June 2026 after a year as global head of data and AI. The structure suggests BBVA is linking technical AI expertise with its broader transformation agenda, though the announcement provides no further details on responsibilities, timeline, or scope.
The appointment may shape how BBVA develops and deploys AI across its operations, potentially affecting customers, employees, and technology partners. If the bank uses AI to improve services or decision-making, customers could see changes in digital banking experiences, while staff may face shifting skill demands. The impact will depend on governance, transparency, and how the bank balances innovation with consumer protection.