UOB has launched three workforce programmes to prepare its staff for an AI-enabled workplace.

The bank plans to hire 1,000 young graduates a year, train 5,500 managers using an AI coaching platform, and open customer-facing and sales advisory roles to experienced professionals seeking flexible work.

UOB announced the programmes at Better U, its annual employee festival. The bank said they reflect its view that investing in people and human judgement will become more important as AI reshapes the workplace.

The announcement builds on the organisation-wide AI upskilling drive that UOB unveiled at the same festival last year.

As concerns grow over AI’s impact on entry-level jobs, UOB expects to recruit 1,000 young graduates a year.

The roles span Personal Financial Services and Anti-Money Laundering, as well as early-career tracks such as the Future Bankers Programme, the Management Associate programme and internships.

The Future Bankers Programme is a 24-month structured scheme for fresh graduates. Participants receive training before they move on to develop customer-facing skills and wealth advisory capabilities.

UOB’s new Better Leader Programme, accredited by the Institute of Banking and Finance (IBF), aims to reach 5,500 managers across the region by the end of 2027.

The bank said it sees human-centred leadership as an increasingly important differentiator as AI changes the workplace.

The programme covers three areas: Leading Self, Leading Teams and Managing Stakeholders. Training combines experiential learning, workplace application and reflection.

Managers will practise workplace conversations on an AI-enabled coaching and role-play platform customised to UOB’s leadership competencies. Scenarios include career feedback, performance management, delegation, stakeholder engagement and career development.

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