BNY (NYSE: BNY), a global financial services company, and the University of Manchester today announced the launch of the Future of Work Alliance. This is a five-year, £5m initiative focused on driving how human-led digital transformation in the age of AI can be responsibly integrated into large data-intensive organizations.
The Future of Work Alliance combines BNY’s proven experience in deploying AI at scale with the University of Manchester’s world-leading research, with deep strengths in applied AI, data science and inclusive innovation. Delivered by Unit M, the university’s innovation arm, the work will be delivered through the Alliance Manchester Business School and will focus on designing, testing and extending new models for the responsible use and application of AI.
Based in Manchester, where BNY has operated for more than 20 years, the alliance will use real-world operational challenges to connect academic research with everyday business needs. This research aims to provide practical, real-world problem solving that accelerates innovation and capacity building, and provides a way to scale AI responsibly over time. In parallel, executive and professional education programs support the leadership, governance, and change management skills required for human-driven AI adoption.
The Future of Work Alliance will focus on five relevant areas:
- BNY Research Challenge Program: Real-world operational challenges are translated into structured, student-led academic projects that provide practical insights and solutions.
- Alliance Manchester Business School Executive Education: A bespoke academic program designed to help BNY leaders excel in AI-enabled organizations.
- Graduate student internship: The multi-week placement provides high-achieving students with practical experience within BNY’s Manchester office.
- Scholarships and endowed courses: Support for five AI-focused scholarships and a BNY endowed chair to provide long-term academic leadership through the university’s Challenge Accepted campaign.
- Keynote series: We convene academic and industry leaders to shape the conversation around the future of the workforce and responsible AI.
“One of the challenges for organizations is how to scale AI in complex environments,” he said. Alejandro Perez, BNY Chief Operating Officer. “The Future of Work Alliance will connect our operational reality with the University of Manchester’s world-class research and talent pipeline, building the foundation for large-scale human-led digital transformation.”
The Future of Work Alliance will strengthen Manchester’s role as a center for responsible, human-led AI innovation that puts people, skills and work at the heart, while establishing a globally relevant model that aims to deliver meaningful outcomes to support students, leaders and organizations as AI becomes increasingly integrated into everyday work.
“AI is transforming work globally, and this partnership combines our incredibly talented researchers, students, and social mission with BNY’s experience deploying AI responsibly and at scale,” he said. Professor Duncan Ivison, President and Vice-Chancellor‑Chancellor of the University of Manchester. “This alliance demonstrates how universities and industry can work together to build trusted approaches to AI, develop the skills of the future and deliver long-term economic and social value for Manchester and the rest of the world.”
“BNY’s £5 million commitment with the University of Manchester is great news for Manchester and the wider region and builds on the company’s long-standing contribution to the local economy,” he said. Lord Stockwood, Minister for Investment, Department of Commerce and Trade. “The Future of Work Alliance is a clear example of our industrial strategy in action, bringing together global financial leaders and the UK’s top universities to drive AI innovation, develop future skills, strengthen regional growth and help secure the UK’s place as a leading investment destination.”
“BNY’s story in Manchester is one of the best examples of what long-term investment in a location looks like. Since arriving in 2005, they have grown to become one of the city’s largest financial services employers.” Joe Manning, Managing Director, Invest Manchester. “BNY’s growing presence alongside the University of Manchester’s research and talent makes this an exciting initiative for the city. Manchester is the UK’s most AI-ready city and this partnership brings together two institutions with the experience and credibility to tackle the AI challenges facing businesses today.”
The University of Manchester’s work builds on BNY’s extensive engagement with universities such as Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Central Florida, and reflects a broader commitment to connecting academic research and talent with real-world business challenges.
