Japanese bank Mizuho plans major AI shift across administrative operations
Banking automation advances in Japan where Mizuho prepares a decade-long transition using AI to streamline routine tasks and redefine how administrative staff contribute to future growth.
Mizuho Financial Group plans to reduce work equivalent to 5,000 administrative positions over the next decade by introducing AI systems to improve operational efficiency. Around one-third of its 15,000 clerical staff nationwide will see their duties reshaped rather than eliminated.
Administrative employees currently manage processes such as document checks and data entry when opening accounts at subsidiary branches. Management expects many of these routine activities to be handled by AI as automation expands across operations.
Company leaders confirmed no layoffs are planned, with affected employees set to move into roles requiring direct customer interaction. Staff will transition towards investment product sales, corporate services and other positions where human engagement remains essential.
Mizuho intends to invest up to 100 billion yen by fiscal 2028 to develop and deploy AI technologies supporting business reform. An internal department overseeing clerical work will also be renamed the ‘Process Design Group’, signalling a stronger focus on AI-driven transformation.
Would you like to learn more about AI, tech and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!