BMO Financial Group announces series of executive appointments

By Pavithra R

Bank Of Montreal (BMO), helping simplify the payments process for Canadian businesses has announced a series of executive appointments to continue to build on its strategic advantages.

Tom Flynn will move from his current role as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to become a Vice-Chair. Mr Flynn, in his new role, will support the growth ambitions of corporate clients & deepening client relationships. He will also continue to support certain enterprise strategic initiatives. Mr Flynn joined BMO in 1992 and has led the Financial Institutions Group in the Investment & Corporate Bank successfully, He has also served as Treasurer before his appointment in March 2008 as Chief Risk Officer (CRO) and in 2011 as CFO. 

“Tom helped lead the bank through the Global Financial Crisis, successive acquisitions of the past decade, and through my transition to CEO in 2017. Tom is one of my most deeply valued partners. He will take his passion for serving clients, his sophisticated knowledge of business performance and capital markets, and his deep understanding of our strategic agenda into his new role,” said Darryl White, Chief Executive Officer, BMO Financial Group.

Tayfun Tuzun will join BMO as Deputy CFO and will become CFO, following a transition period. He will also join the bank’s Executive Committee. 

Mr Tuzun most recently served as CFO of Fifth Third Bank since 2013. He is bringing deep experience in the U.S. financial services market across banking and other areas, which aligns with BMO’s growing U.S. business. He has held senior positions in finance & treasury and has spent considerable time in technology related areas, including digital investment and payments.

“Tayfun is a strategic business leader who has successfully led bank-wide transformation efforts focused on delivering efficiency, improving returns and sustaining winning performance. Tom will work closely with Tayfun to ensure a smooth transition,” said Mr White.

BMO also announced the promotion of Simon Fish from his current role as General Counsel to Special Advisor to the CEO. Mr Simon Fish has been a difference-maker in BMO’s global leadership in ESG and will advise on the bank’s continued development and implementation of sustainability strategy and ESG programs.

“Simon has been an outstanding General Counsel for the bank and has developed one of the strongest Legal & Regulatory Compliance Groups in our industry. He has also repeatedly elevated our ESG posture and played a leading role in the rapid elevation of this field,” stated Mr White. 

Sharon Haward-Laird will be appointed General Counsel, reporting to the CEO, and will join the bank’s Executive Committee. Ms Sharon has consistently delivered results in her roles at the bank, including Deputy General Counsel, Head of Corporate Communications and Investor Relations, and her current role as Head of North American Treasury & Payment Solutions.

All the appointments are effective from January 1, 2021; Mr Tuzun will join the bank as Deputy CFO on November 16, 2020.

Established since 1817, BMO is a leading bank driven by a single purpose: to Boldly Grow the Good in business and life. As the 8th largest bank, by assets, in North America, it helps customers make the most of their money.