Senior Advisor, Strategic Initiatives

BMO•Toronto, ON

About The Position

The role focuses on solving complex, ambiguous problems; shaping strategy through structured analysis; and leading cross‑functional initiatives from business case development through realization of measurable business outcomes. The Senior Advisor, Strategic Initiatives functions as a trusted advisor on enterprise‑level initiatives with the responsibility for developing and presenting recommendations to inform high‑impact business decisions, balancing strategic rigor with pragmatic execution in a regulated financial services environment.

Requirements

Typically 7+ years of relevant experience, with a post‑secondary degree in a related field or equivalent combination of education and experience
experience in strategy, management consulting, or cost-takeout transformation and optimization roles is an asset.
Seasoned professional with a combination of education, experience and industry knowledge.
Demonstrated ability to advise senior executives and influence outcomes in complex, matrixed organizations (Influence skills - In-depth/Expert).
Advanced analytical, problem‑solving, and structured thinking skills, with comfort navigating ambiguity and incomplete information (analytical and problem solving skills - In-depth/Expert).
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to distill complex analysis into clear, executive‑ready materials (verbal & written communication skills - In-depth/Expert).
Strong stakeholder management and collaboration skills, with a track record of leading cross‑functional initiatives (cross-group collaboration - In-depth/Expert).
Proven capability in data‑driven decision‑making, strategy development, and value‑focused execution (data driven decision making - In-depth/Expert).
Able to manage ambiguity (In-depth/Expert).

Responsibilities

Structure ambiguous, complex problems, applying hypothesis‑driven analysis, data synthesis, and “big‑picture” judgment to assess strategic options.
Generate fact‑based insights by defining analytical requirements, interpreting data, and translating findings into clear executive‑level narratives.
Develop compelling business cases by clarifying objectives, quantifying financial and non‑financial impacts, assessing ROI and risk, and evaluating alternative courses of action.
Serve as a trusted strategic advisor to senior leaders, providing insight‑driven recommendations on business strategy, transformation initiatives, and priority trade‑offs.
Operates at a group/enterprise-wide level and serves as a specialist resource to executive leaders and senior stakeholders.
Develop short-term and long-term roadmaps that align initiatives with group and enterprise objectives / business priorities.
Architect solutions based on a deep understanding of the business strategy and stakeholder needs.
Accountable for the design and execution of strategic initiatives and transformation programs, adapting approach as conditions evolve to ensure value realization.
Applies expertise and thinks creatively to address unique or ambiguous situations and to find solutions to problems that can be complex and non-routine.
Identify key dependencies, enablers, and constraints across initiatives, proactively escalating and resolving issues that could impede results.
Leads implementation of strategic initiatives within group and across BMO by partnering with various internal & external stakeholders as required; complexity of initiatives may vary and usually involve multiple stakeholders across the enterprise.
Collaborates across BMO to develop communications strategies and ensure consistency of messaging, in order to positively influence or change behaviour.
Leads change management activities, ensuring cross business/group coordination and logistical support for the implementation of change.
Monitor performance against intended outcomes, identify emerging risks or gaps, and course‑correct to protect delivery and strategic intent.
Operate at a group and enterprise level, partnering with diverse internal and external stakeholders to align perspectives and drive coordinated action.
Influence without authority by articulating a clear strategic rationale, aligning stakeholders to outcomes, and facilitating informed decision‑making.
Lead change management efforts, including readiness assessment, stakeholder engagement, communication strategy, implementation planning, and sustainment of change.
Acts as a subject matter expert on relevant laws, regulations and policies, ensuring initiatives are designed and executed in full compliance
Apply sound judgment and risk‑informed decision‑making consistent with BMO’s Risk Management Framework and enterprise standards, in line with our Risk Culture and within our approved Risk Appetite that align to business strategy, protect assets, and adhere to applicable policy documents (Frameworks, Policies, Standards, Procedures and Supporting documents).
Stay informed of industry trends, competitive dynamics, and leading practices, incorporating external perspectives into internal strategy discussions where relevant.
May network with industry contacts to gather and identify competitive insights and best practices.
Implements changes in response to shifting trends.
Broader work or accountabilities may be assigned as needed.