Close Brothers Group has announced plans to cut around 600 jobs while accelerating the adoption of artificial intelligence, as the lender grapples with rising losses and fallout from the UK motor finance scandal.
The planned job cuts, which represent nearly a quarter of the company’s 2,600 strong workforce, are expected to be implemented over the next 18 months across its operations in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The move signals a significant restructuring effort aimed at stabilising the bank’s financial position and improving operational efficiency.
The decision comes as Close Brothers faces mounting compensation costs linked to the ongoing motor finance scandal, which has shaken investor confidence and triggered a sharp decline in its share price. The controversy centres on allegations surrounding the mis selling of car finance products, with regulators and legal claims likely to drive substantial payouts.
In response to these pressures, the bank is turning to artificial intelligence as part of a broader transformation strategy. Management says the accelerated rollout of AI technologies will help streamline operations, reduce costs and enhance customer service delivery.
Industry analysts note that the move reflects a growing trend across the financial sector, where institutions are increasingly leveraging AI to automate processes such as risk assessment, fraud detection and customer support. However, the shift also raises concerns about job displacement, as automation replaces traditional roles.
Close Brothers’ restructuring highlights the dual challenge facing many banks today: managing regulatory and legal risks while adapting to rapid technological change. The integration of AI is seen as essential for staying competitive, but it often comes with difficult workforce decisions.
The lender’s financial difficulties have been compounded by broader economic uncertainties, including higher interest rates and tighter lending conditions. These factors have put additional strain on profitability, particularly for specialist lenders with concentrated exposure to specific markets.
Observers say the success of the bank’s strategy will depend on how effectively it balances cost cutting with long term investment in technology. While AI adoption could improve efficiency, rebuilding trust with customers and investors will remain a critical priority.
The developments at Close Brothers underscore a wider shift within the banking industry, where digital transformation is no longer optional but necessary for survival. At the same time, regulatory scrutiny and legacy issues continue to shape the financial outlook for many institutions.
As the company moves forward with its restructuring plan, attention will focus on how it navigates the combined pressures of legal liabilities, technological disruption and workforce changes in an increasingly competitive financial landscape.