BMO U.S. is hiring: Manager, U.S. Public Relations in Chicago

Supports the delivery of external communication messages, programs and initiatives to increase BMO’s engagement externally. Communicates with employees, media and other stakeholders on matters related to corporate affairs and corporate messaging. Supports a wide range of campaigns and programs including special events, fundraisers, education and awareness, and relationships with internal and external partners. Ensures BMO’s brand is communicated in a way that reflects our values and corporate responsibility.

• Acts as a trusted advisor to assigned business/group.


• Influences and negotiates to achieve business objectives.


• Recommends and implements solutions based on analysis of issues and implications for the business.


• Identifies emerging issues and trends to inform decision‐making.


• Acts as the day to day subject matter expert for the external communications program/portfolio.


• May represent BMO’s position and business interests to specific stakeholder industry or government organizations.


• Supports the execution of strategic initiatives in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.


• Researches and identifies position statements on specific issues to support a proposed program, initiative or event.


• Executes program and initiative activities based on a detailed understanding of program/initiative requirements.


• Identifies opportunities for alignment with other BMO groups to strengthen messaging.


• Builds effective relationships with internal and external stakeholders.


• Ensures alignment between stakeholders.


• Reviews and assesses internal and external requests; works with partners to prioritize and approve work.


• Conducts independent review, analysis, and resolution of corporate affairs and external communication related issues.


• Acts as a subject matter expert for the development and maintenance of process and program frameworks, principles and practices.


• Prepares communications and analysis to launch or support programs, campaigns, and events.


• Acts as point of escalation on administrative matters.


• Builds change management plans of varying scope and type; leads or participates in a variety of change management activities including readiness assessments, planning, stakeholder management, execution, evaluation and sustainment of initiatives.


• Leads or participates in defining the communication plan designed to positively influence or change behaviour; develops tailored messaging and identifies appropriate distribution channels.


• Provides input into the planning and implementation of operational programs.


• Executes work to deliver timely, accurate and efficient service.


• Develops solutions and makes recommendations based on an understanding of the business strategy and stakeholder needs.


• Provides advice and guidance to assigned business/group on implementation of solutions.


• Develops knowledge related to external communications and/or area of specialty such as media relations.


• Collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to provide business context in the design, development and implementation of external communication programs, campaigns and events.


• Supports the organization and execution of external communication related initiatives, programs, campaigns and events such as community sponsorship events and fundraising campaigns.


• Supports the development, production and distribution of communication, campaign and special event materials across all delivery channels.


• Ensures that BMO’s brand is used correctly and effectively in all content by applying standards.


• Breaks down strategic problems, analyzes data and information to provide insights and recommendations.


• Monitors and tracks performance, and addresses any issues. Designs and produces regular and ad‑hoc reports and dashboards.


• Supports development and execution of strategic initiatives in collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.


• Focus is primarily on business or group within BMO; may also have a broader, enterprise‑wide focus.


• Provides specialized consulting, analytical and technical support.


• Exercises judgment to identify, diagnose and solve problems within given rules.


• Works independently and regularly handles non‑routine situations.


• Broader work or accountabilities may be assigned as needed.


• Take measured risks while protecting the bank by applying the Risk Management Framework in the execution of the role, in line with our Risk Culture and within the approved Risk Appetite, making sound and risk‑informed decisions that align to business strategy, protect assets and adhere to applicable policies, laws and regulations.

Qualifications

• Typically between 5 and 7 years of relevant experience and a post‑secondary degree in a related field of study or an equivalent combination of education and experience.


• Experience in media relations or external communications related field – in depth.


• Deep knowledge and technical proficiency gained through extensive education and business experience.


• Verbal and written communication skills – in depth.


• Collaboration and team skills – in depth.


• Analytical and problem‑solving skills – in depth.


• Influence skills – in depth.


• Data‑driven decision making – in depth.

Salary

$74,000.00 – $138,000.00

Pay Type

Salaried

Benefits

Health insurance, tuition reimbursement, accident and life insurance, and retirement savings plans are among the benefits offered.

Equal Employment Opportunity

BMO is proud to be an equal employment opportunity employer. We evaluate applicants without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or any other legally protected characteristics. We also consider applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law. BMO is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please submit a request and your contact information to BMOCareers.Support@bmo.com.