Lincoln Financial Group has taken a significant step towards enhancing its technological capabilities by appointing Nilanjan “Neel” Adhya as its first executive vice president and chief AI, data, and analytics officer. This newly created position is part of the company’s strategic shift to integrate artificial intelligence and data at the core of its operations. Adhya will officially start in this role on January 9, 2026, and will report directly to Ellen Cooper, the company’s Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer.
In his new role, Adhya will join Lincoln’s senior management committee, emphasizing the insurer’s commitment to placing AI and data governance at the highest level of its leadership. His previous experience includes serving as chief digital officer and global head of digital platforms at BlackRock, where he spearheaded AI initiatives aimed at enhancing client experiences and modernizing digital platforms.
The mandate for Adhya involves advancing AI and data as enterprise-wide capabilities to improve efficiency, speed, and decision-making across Lincoln Financial. Cooper highlighted that the appointment reflects the company’s intention to develop foundational capabilities that will foster long-term growth and optimize its operating model.
Adhya possesses over 25 years of experience in technology and customer experience transformation. Before his tenure at BlackRock, he spent 16 years at IBM, where he held multiple leadership roles, ultimately becoming chief digital officer and vice president of digital transformation. He holds an MBA in strategy and finance from Yale University and a master’s degree in industrial engineering and operations research from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
In his own words, Adhya expressed a commitment to applying AI and data in a practical manner that aligns with Lincoln’s strategic goals. He aims to enhance operational processes and open new avenues for innovation throughout the organization.
This appointment aligns Lincoln Financial with a growing trend among financial services firms, which are increasingly formalizing AI leadership at the executive level. As insurers and asset managers strive to leverage data and automation, they must also navigate challenges related to risk management, governance, and regulatory scrutiny.
The strategy marks a pivotal moment for Lincoln as it seeks to enhance its competitiveness in a rapidly evolving market. With Adhya’s leadership, the company is poised to strengthen its data-driven initiatives and secure a leading position in the financial services industry.