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BMO Achieves Global Recognition for AI Talent Development

BMO Financial Group has recently secured the top position in the 2025 Evident AI Index, earning a joint #1 global ranking in AI Talent Development. This prestigious acknowledgment reflects the bank's unwavering dedication to fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation among its workforce.

Climbing the Rankings

BMO ascended five spots in the global rankings, thanks to remarkable performances across the four key pillars evaluated in the index: Talent, Leadership, Innovation, and Transparency. Mona Malone, BMO's Chief Administrative Officer, emphasized the importance of AI proficiency in driving the bank's innovative initiatives and delivering enhanced value for clients. "At BMO, AI talent is essential to driving innovation and delivering value to our clients. We're proud to set the global standard in how we invest in our workforce and scale AI to maximize team performance," she stated.

Kristin Milchanowski, BMO’s Chief Artificial Intelligence and Data Officer, added, "AI is amplifying our impact; it's unlocking new opportunities and driving progress for our clients and the communities we serve."

Building a Future-Ready Workforce

BMO's emphasis on AI talent development is reflected in its robust and inclusive approach to training employees within the organization. Here are some highlights:

AI for All

BMO has established a foundational training program designed to equip every employee, irrespective of their technical background, with a practical understanding of AI. This program addresses ethical usage, governance, and various applications, ensuring that all staff members feel empowered to use AI responsibly and collaboratively.

Specialized Learning Paths

To cater to diverse roles within the organization, BMO provides tailored learning pathways focused on AI, Cloud technologies, Agile methodologies, and Cybersecurity. Programs such as "Artificial Intelligence Foundations for Non-Technical Roles" and "AI for Leaders" ensure strategic alignment and responsible adoption of AI practices across the board.

Enhancing Tech Literacy

Utilizing its digital learning platform, Pluralsight, BMO is driving technology fluency across the enterprise. Recent data indicates a 60% year-over-year increase in employees mastering critical business skills, with reassessed learners improving their capabilities by 48%. Engagement in AI-related learning has seen a staggering increase of 222% year-over-year.

Academic Collaborations

BMO is actively supporting university-led AI initiatives through funding and partnerships with esteemed institutions such as McGill University, the Rotman School of Management, and the University of Waterloo. These collaborations aim to advance academic programs and foster a vibrant AI ecosystem.

Innovation Sprint Events

The innovative "Destination Digital" event showcases BMO's commitment to encouraging employees to prototype AI-powered solutions that address real business challenges. Prototypes that demonstrate success receive funding for implementation, highlighting the program's tangible impact.

Diverse Recruitment Strategy

BMO targets a wide array of educational backgrounds during its recruitment process, including fields like neuroscience, law, and philosophy. This approach values not only technical expertise but also sociotechnical skills such as curiosity, communication, and responsible AI governance.

Scaling Innovation to Drive Impact

BMO's commitment to a digital-first mindset, combined with its agile ability to scale internal AI capabilities, positions it as a leader in the fast-paced banking sector. Its AI strategy is transforming operations by streamlining processes, enhancing decision-making, and unlocking insights that drive innovation. With opportunities ranging from internships and graduate positions in AI to dedicated internal recruiters, BMO ensures that its talent ecosystem supports individuals at every stage of their career journey.

Additionally, specialized training programs for both technical AI professionals and senior leadership guarantee alignment and a cohesive understanding of AI's strategic importance throughout the organization.

About BMO Financial Group

BMO Financial Group is recognized as the seventh largest bank in North America by assets, with total assets amounting to $1.4 trillion as of July 31, 2025. With a legacy spanning over 200 years, BMO serves a diverse clientele of 13 million customers across Canada, the United States, and selected global markets. Guided by the mission to "Boldly Grow the Good in business and life," BMO is committed to driving positive change, fostering a thriving economy, and creating an inclusive society.