Pascal Belaud

With three decades of technology leadership, I build teams and platforms that turn data and AI into measurable business advantage. I joined Truist as Chief AI & Data Officer, a newly created enterprise role where I will shape the vision and execution of AI, data, and advanced automation across the company. My mission is to deliver practical, responsible, and scalable AI that elevates customer experiences, empowers teammates, and unlocks new revenue and efficiency opportunities. What I bring - Proven leadership at scale: decades of experience across cloud, data, analytics, and AI, including senior roles in Microsoft’s U.S. financial services organization where I led cloud and AI platform strategy in the context of Financial Services industry. - Operator mindset: I combine product and engineering rigor with commercial focus—driving platform adoption, operational excellence, and measurable outcomes. - Executive engagement: I’ve led hundreds of executive briefings on generative and agentic AI, advising CEOs, boards, and executive committees on strategy and governance. At Truist At Truist I am responsible for enterprise AI, data strategy, and advanced automation, reporting to the CIO and partnering across lines of business to embed AI responsibly into customer journeys and operations. My priorities include: data foundation and governance, trusted AI platforms, automation for scale, and ethical AI practices that protect customers and strengthen trust. Truist’s scale and community focus create a unique opportunity to deliver AI that matters—improving personalization, speed, and financial outcomes for clients and communities. Track record and impact Previously, I led Cloud & AI Platforms for Microsoft’s U.S. Financial Services vertical, managing a high-performing organization and driving large-scale cloud adoption and AI initiatives. I co-founded SynerAI to advance language-based market analysis, and I’ve consistently focused on turning open data and models into actionable insights for financial services. I prioritize measurable business impact, from revenue acceleration to operational cost reduction and risk mitigation. Values and approach I champion responsible AI, diversity of thought, and cross-functional collaboration. My approach balances speed and prudence: move fast to learn and iterate, while embedding governance, explainability, and human-centered design. I believe AI’s greatest value is realized when it augments human judgment and strengthens institutional trust.