Leadership Moves
Written by: CDO Magazine Bureau
Updated 12:30 PM UTC, Thu August 21, 2025
Ali Abedini, Metropolitan Commercial Bank Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer
Metropolitan Commercial Bank, a full-service commercial bank headquartered in New York City is excited to announce the appointment of Ali Abedini as its first Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer. He joins with over two decades of experience in advanced analytics, machine learning, and responsible AI in highly regulated financial services.
Abedini will collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate AI and advanced data capabilities into the Bank’s core financial and operational systems.
“We recognize the critical importance of growing our team to lead the development and implementation of cutting-edge technologies to better serve our clients,” said Mark R. DeFazio, Founder, President and CEO at Metropolitan Commercial Bank. “Abedini’s background and experience will be instrumental in achieving our strategic growth.”
Prior to joining MCB, Abedini served as Executive Head of Advanced Analytics & AI at TD Bank. Throughout his career, he has spearheaded AI and data-driven initiatives, with a strong focus on personalization and intelligent automation to drive business outcomes.
“I’m honored to join Metropolitan Commercial Bank as its first Chief AI Officer at such a pivotal moment. This organization has developed a well-thought-out growth plan that will benefit from integrating AI into its systems,” commented Abedini. “I’m also excited to work directly with Mark DeFazio, a founder-CEO who brings a rare combination of entrepreneurial mindset and institutional leadership.”
In addition to elevating Metropolitan Commercial Bank’s client experience, the Chief Artificial Intelligence Officer role is strategically designed to strengthen the Bank’s capacity to deliver tailored banking solutions to both clients and partners.