HSBC announced two new senior technology roles to drive forward the bank’s digitalisation, including to improve customer experience and to create innovative growth opportunities.

Kate Platonova has been promoted internally to Chief Data and Architecture Officer. Catherine Zhou joins the bank as Global Head of Venture, Digital Innovation and Partnerships. Both roles will report to Group COO, John Hinshaw.

Kate, who is based in London, will be responsible for combining the bank’s Data and Architecture disciplines, which will enable it to make data-driven business decisions, complemented by a sustainable and resilient technology architecture. Prior to joining HSBC in 2017, Kate held a number of senior technology roles in JP Morgan, Barclays Capital and Morgan Stanley.

Catherine will lead a bank-wide approach to investments and partnerships with established and emerging technology companies. She will identify opportunities to enhance products and services, and to create new, innovative business models. She is based in the US, where prior to joining HSBC she led East West Bank’s consumer and digital businesses. Previously Catherine had a consulting career with PwC, EY, Accenture and Intuit.

Investment in technology and digitalisation was one of three strategic priorities outlined by the bank at its 3Q results.  HSBC said that creating intuitive digital platforms would support growth in key areas such as Wealth and Commercial Banking.

This comes at a time when COVID-19 has accelerated digital adoption across many areas of daily life, including banking. For example, HSBC saw 220% increase in mobile payments in 2Q20 versus 2Q19.

John Hinshaw, Group COO HSBC, said: “Investment in technology will make it easier for our customers to bank with us.  We are also making the bank safer and more personalised for each of our customers.”

“Kate and Catherine both have extensive experience in technology and financial services and I look forward to working with them to improve the bank’s customer experience, create innovative business models and drive new growth opportunities.”

Kate Platonova said: "By bringing together Data and Architecture we enable our thought-leading technologists to harness the power of our global data to deliver next generation systems that serve our customers in ever more intuitive ways.”

Catherine Zhou said: “I’m delighted to be joining HSBC and to have the opportunity to build on the strength of its trusted brand, collaborating with big tech and fintech partners to enhance its digital customer offering, products and services.”