#Canada #Toronto #BMO #AI Magazine #Kristin Milchanowski

BMO's Kristin Milchanowski Named to AI Magazine's Top 100 AI Leaders 2026 List

In an impressive recognition of her significant contributions to the field of artificial intelligence, Kristin Milchanowski, the Chief AI & Data Officer at BMO (Bank of Montreal), has been named to AI Magazine's prestigious Top 100 AI Leaders list for 2026. This accolade acknowledges global executives making impactful strides in AI, and Milchanowski has carved a niche by advancing AI within the financial services sector, emphasizing the importance of talent development, trusted innovation, and enterprise-wide learning.

Milchanowski's leadership at BMO has been pivotal in the integration and ethical application of AI technologies across various business areas. One of the hallmark initiatives she co-leads is the enterprise-wide AI learning program, which equips BMO employees with the crucial skills necessary for effectively utilizing AI in their daily operations. This program aims to enhance the understanding of AI's mechanics, ensuring that employees can apply it responsibly—a commitment echoed by Steve Tennyson, BMO’s Chief Technology and Operations Officer, who praised her for developing AI capabilities that are both innovative and human-centered.

AI Magazine's Top 100 AI Leaders list is not just a recognition; it serves as a spotlight on leaders who are shaping the future of artificial intelligence through thoughtful strategy and responsible deployment across various industries including technology, healthcare, and financial services. This year's list showcases individuals whose efforts facilitate the harnessing of AI for enhanced growth, improved efficiency, and long-term organizational value.

BMO's Commitment to AI Education

Under Milchanowski's leadership, BMO has greatly intensified its commitment to fostering enterprise-wide AI education. In August 2025, the bank launched the 'AI for All' initiative, a comprehensive learning program designed to provide every employee at BMO with a robust foundation in AI principles and practices. This initiative not only informs staff about AI's operational framework but also demonstrates how BMO applies AI to create meaningful impacts for both clients and employees.

Milchanowski states, "The best way to learn about AI is to stay curious and experiment hands-on. The more we use AI, the more confident and capable we become." This philosophy is integral to the 'AI for All' program, which encourages practical exposure alongside theoretical knowledge.

BMO's pioneering efforts in reskilling and upskilling its workforce in AI have received international acclaim. The bank recently garnered top accolades for its commitment to AI talent development, achieving a joint #1 ranking in AI Talent Development in the 2025 Evident AI Index, which evaluates the AI maturity and execution of financial institutions worldwide.

As Milchanowski emphasizes, "AI success is ultimately about empowering people with the right knowledge and tools." Her role within BMO reflects a broader trend of integrating ethical practices and robust governance into AI strategies, ensuring it's developed and applied on a large scale.

For those interested in exploring the full Top 100 AI Leaders 2026 list and learning more about industry leadership in AI, AI Magazine offers comprehensive insights and profiles on the innovators leading this crucial domain.

About BMO Financial Group

BMO Financial Group ranks as the seventh largest bank in North America, boasting total assets of approximately $1.5 trillion as of October 31, 2025. With over 200 years of service, BMO is a diverse organization employing nearly 13 million clients across Canada, the United States, and select international markets. With a mission to "Boldly Grow the Good in business and life," BMO is dedicated to fostering positive global change while ensuring the development of sustainable practices and resilient communities.