Rabobank Tech Chief Zwart: Agentic AI Changes Everything, But Engineers Aren't Going Anywhere

New Wave of Technology Follows Agile Transition

According to chief innovation technology officer (CITO) Alexander Zwart (53), Rabobank once again stands on the brink of a major technological shift. Where he led the move to agile working eight years ago as head of digital transformation, he is now focused on the rise of agentic AI within the bank. This emerges from an interview with Zwart, published by trade publication Computable on September 22, 2026.

"Everything Changes, But Engineers Are Still Needed"

The core of Zwart's message, as it emerges from the interview, is twofold: agentic AI will, in his view, have a fundamental impact on the way Rabobank works, but this does not mean that software developers as a profession will disappear. In doing so, Zwart positions himself within a broader debate playing out across the tech sector, where the rise of AI systems capable of autonomously carrying out tasks raises questions about what this means for technical roles within organizations.

Agentic AI refers to AI systems that do not merely process information or offer suggestions, but can independently carry out tasks and processes within business environments. Since 2025, the topic has been regarded as one of the most widely discussed developments in the technology sector, with banks and other financial institutions actively exploring how such systems can be deployed within their processes.

Experience with an Earlier Transformation

Zwart's statements carry weight because of his earlier role at Rabobank. Eight years ago, as head of digital transformation, he led the introduction of agile working within the organization—a change that was likewise considered far-reaching at the time for the way teams within the bank collaborate and develop software. That experience apparently forms the frame of reference through which he now views the advent of agentic AI.

Limited Details Available

The source consulted does not disclose further details on the concrete way in which Rabobank intends to deploy agentic AI, which systems or departments will be involved first, or what consequences this will have for training or personnel policy. Figures on the size of the bank's engineering workforce or a timeline for implementation are also absent from the available material.

Looking Ahead

The interview with Zwart underscores that major Dutch financial institutions treat agentic AI as a strategic theme, in line with earlier organizational changes such as the shift to agile working. Concrete details of Rabobank's policy in this area will have to emerge from follow-up reporting.