Optus expands AI division with ex-CBA Jesse Arundell

Optus has hired Jesse Arundell as its head of artificial intelligence (AI) of its newly announced AI division.

Arundell is well placed for the role, having spent almost 10 years as the head of emerging technology at CBA where he led in designing, building, validating and scaling AI systems, products, platforms and digital experiences for the bank’s internal and external customers.

Samantha Lawson, vice president of AI at Optus, said Arundell will be responsible for embedding AI into new areas across Optus.

“He brings extensive experience from his previous role and is energised by AI’s potential to transform the way Australians connect,” she said.

According to Lawson, its AI division continues to grow, with several positions currently advertised.

“We’ve been implementing AI solutions for several years and our growing AI division will allow my team and I to innovate at scale, delivering smarter and more personalised offerings for customers,” she said.

Lawson was appointed VP of AI at Optus in April 2023, coming from Oxford VR where she held the position of chief operating officer, as well board director.

She also spent just over three years as the general manager strategy and innovation at Commonwealth Bank between 2018-2021.