June 23, 2026

UBS Tech Revolution: COO-designate Takes the Reins as Dargan Exits, Setting Stage for AI-Driven Future

UBS Bank
Reading Time: 2 minutes

UBS, the leading global financial institution, is implementing a strategic restructuring of its executive team, aimed at enhancing oversight of its technology operations. This change comes as a critical phase of operational and technology development begins, with the Group Technology division now falling under the purview of the incoming Group Chief Operating Officer.

Executive Changes on the Horizon

Mike Dargan, the current Group Chief Operations and Technology Officer, will be leaving his position at UBS at the end of December 2025 to seize a new opportunity elsewhere. This departure has resulted in an immediate reshuffling of responsibilities within the firm’s operational and technology sectors.

From the start of January 2026, the Group Technology division will report to Beatriz Martin as she steps into her new role as Group Chief Operating Officer. This shift will consolidate the operational responsibility and technology governance on a day-to-day basis under Martin’s leadership.

Interim Leadership and Continuity

In the interim, while a permanent successor is sought, Chris Gelvin will assume the role of acting Head of Group Technology. Gelvin, who currently serves as Chief Operating Officer of Group Technology, will maintain continuity and stability within the operation as UBS finalizes its long-term leadership structure.

UBS has indicated that this expansion of the Group COO role is designed to support seamless operations from beginning to end, prioritizing technology and artificial intelligence initiatives. Furthermore, it is intended to facilitate the completion of the ongoing technology integration process.

CEO’s Perspective: Growth, Resilience, and Digitization

Sergio Ermotti, the Group CEO, has praised Dargan for his role in leveraging technology to enhance the company’s business performance. He stated that Dargan had played a pivotal role in positioning the company’s technology as a key factor in business growth and resilience, and in advancing the firm’s strategic shift towards artificial intelligence and digitization.

It’s important to note that changes to the Group Executive Board are subject to regulatory approval. Revised reporting lines and interim arrangements are being implemented to ensure stable execution during this transition period.

Questions & Answers

Q: Who will assume the role of Group Chief Operating Officer at UBS?
A: Beatriz Martin will take over as Group Chief Operating Officer from January 1, 2026.

Q: What will be the role of Chris Gelvin during the transition?
A: Chris Gelvin will serve as interim Head of Group Technology, maintaining continuity during the transition period until a permanent successor is found.

Q: What is the main goal of these changes in UBS’s leadership?
A: The main goal is to enhance oversight of technology operations, support seamless end-to-end operations, prioritize technology and artificial intelligence initiatives, and complete the ongoing technology integration process.

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