chief ai, data and analytics officer (caidao)technical
A chief AI, data and analytics officer (CAIDAO) is a senior executive responsible for overseeing how an organization uses data and artificial intelligence to make better decisions and improve operations. Think of them as the person who turns vast amounts of information into clear insights, much like a chef transforming raw ingredients into a finished dish. For investors, this role is important because it signals how effectively a company leverages technology to stay competitive and innovate.
client-facing ai initiativestechnical
Client-facing AI initiatives involve the use of artificial intelligence tools and systems directly designed to interact with and assist customers or clients. These initiatives can improve service speed, personalize experiences, and help answer questions more efficiently—similar to a highly responsive digital assistant. For investors, such initiatives matter because they can enhance customer satisfaction, increase loyalty, and potentially boost a company's growth and profitability.
digital transformationtechnical
Digital transformation is the process of using digital technologies to fundamentally change how organizations operate, deliver value, and connect with customers. It often involves updating systems, automating tasks, and improving digital tools to increase efficiency and stay competitive. For investors, it signifies a company's ability to adapt to technological advances, which can impact its growth prospects and long-term success.
industrial engineering and operations researchtechnical
Industrial engineering and operations research are fields that focus on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of processes and systems. They use analysis and problem-solving techniques to optimize how resources are used, whether in manufacturing, services, or logistics, helping organizations operate more smoothly. For investors, these disciplines can indicate how well a company manages its operations and adapts to changing demands, impacting its overall performance and profitability.
society for human resource managementtechnical
The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) is a professional organization that provides resources, standards, and support for human resources professionals who manage employee policies and workplace practices. It matters to investors because effective human resource management can influence a company's productivity, workplace culture, and compliance, all of which can impact financial performance and long-term stability.
business analytics and machine learningtechnical
Business analytics and machine learning involve examining large amounts of data to identify patterns, trends, and insights that can inform decision-making. They use advanced computer techniques to predict future outcomes and optimize strategies, much like a weather forecast helps plan for upcoming conditions. For investors, these tools provide a deeper understanding of market behavior and help identify opportunities or risks early on.
senior management committeetechnical
A senior management committee is a group of top leaders within an organization who make important decisions about the company's strategy, operations, and policies. Think of it as the executive team’s steering group that guides the company's direction, similar to how a captain and senior crew members set the course for a ship. For investors, understanding this committee helps gauge how well the company is managed and how decisions that affect its future are made.
operating modeltechnical
An operating model is the way a company organizes and manages its resources, processes, and activities to deliver its products or services. It acts like a blueprint that shows how different parts of the business work together to create value. For investors, understanding a company's operating model helps assess how efficiently it operates and how well it can adapt to change or grow over time.
RADNOR, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--
Lincoln Financial (NYSE: LNC) today announced the appointment of Nilanjan (Neel) Adhya as Executive Vice President, Chief AI, Data and Analytics Officer (CAIDAO), effective January 9, 2026. In this newly created role, Adhya will advance AI and data as enterprise core capabilities. He will report to Ellen Cooper, Chairman, President and CEO, and will join Lincoln’s Senior Management Committee.
Neel Adhya; Source: Lincoln Financial
Since 2021, Adhya served as Chief Digital Officer and Global Head of Digital Platforms and Experiences at BlackRock, where he orchestrated client-facing AI initiatives and modernized the firm’s digital approach to deliver personalized and integrated at-scale customer-centric capabilities.
“As we continue to position Lincoln for future growth, we are building the foundational capabilities that will allow us to operate with greater speed, efficiency and insight. AI and data play an increasingly important role in supporting the optimization of our operating model,” said Ellen Cooper, Chairman, President and CEO of Lincoln Financial. “Under Neel’s leadership, we will take a thoughtful and disciplined step forward in leveraging AI to support business needs and drive tangible business outcomes.”
Adhya brings to Lincoln a 25-year track record of leading results-oriented product and customer-experience driven business transformations.
Prior to joining BlackRock, Adhya spent 16 years at IBM in various leadership roles, ultimately serving as Chief Digital Officer and Vice President of Digital Transformation. Adhya holds an MBA in Strategy and Finance from Yale University’s School of Management and a Master of Science in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He serves on the Society for Human Resource Management’s Board of Directors (Strategy and Governance Committees) and on the Board of Directors of Purdue University’s Krenicki Center for Business Analytics and Machine Learning.
“I am honored to join Lincoln. Our opportunity is to apply AI and data in a focused, disciplined way that directly supports our strategy – enhancing the experience we deliver to customers, improving how work gets done and opening new pathways for innovation,” said Adhya. “This is about building enduring capabilities that accelerate our work, support growth and deliver value for clients, policyholders, shareholders and our employees.”
About Lincoln Financial
Lincoln Financial helps people confidently plan for their vision of a successful financial future. As of December 31, 2024, approximately 17 million customers trust our guidance and solutions across four core businesses – annuities, life insurance, group protection, and retirement plan services. As of September 30, 2025, the company had $347 billion in end-of-period account balances, net of reinsurance. Headquartered in Radnor, PA., Lincoln Financial is the marketing name for Lincoln National Corporation (NYSE: LNC) and its affiliates.
