Application Deadline

09/29/2026

Address

100 King Street West

Job Family Group

Strategy & Change

This role is Hybrid (2-3 days/week in the office)

The Director, Research & Ecosystems is accountable for driving industry research and publications in AI and Data (i.e., quantum AI), enabling open innovation and establishing robust internal and external eco-systems. This role will play a key role in developing strategic partnerships between BMO and industry stakeholders, including businesses, academia, etc. The Director, Research & Ecosystems will support the Chief AI and Data Officer in amplifying AI solutions and trends.

- Drives the strategy and leads the implementation of AI and Data industry research and publications.
- Acts as a trusted advisor to the Chief AI and Data Officer in research and innovation initiatives.
- Advises on and advocates for AI industry research and innovation activities across the enterprise.
- Develops and nurtures robust partnerships to form an innovation eco-system with academia, government agencies, niche start-ups and industry partners where applicable.
- Provides support with industry conferences, seminars, webinars, and networking events, fostering collaboration and expanding BMO’s industry presence.
- Serves as primary point of contact for external partners seeking to collaborate on AI related projects / programs.
- Stays informed on the latest AI trends, industry shifts and competitor activities to identify opportunities for partnerships and growth.
- Develop and delivery industry publications, thought leadership, and presentations based on research and insights.
- Adheres to AI governance framework, ensuring all research and publications are aligned with ethical and responsible practices.
- Recommends measures to improve organizational effectiveness.
- May consult to or serve on various committees and task forces.
- Manages resources and leads the execution of strategic initiatives to deliver on business and financial goals.




- Interacts with various BMO groups to ensure strategy and initiatives meet enterprise governance requirements.
- 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.
- Defines business requirements for analytics & reporting to ensure data insights inform business decision making.
- Provides coaching on complex strategic & business issues and facilitates processes to reach effective resolution.
- Assesses and adapts existing operational programs; develops recent capabilities to ensure ongoing success.
- Leads the execution of operational programs; assesses and adapts as needed to ensure quality of execution.
- Leads change management activities, ensuring cross business/group coordination and logistical support for the implementation of change.
- Acts as a relationship manager on assigned projects/programs and ensures alignment to overall enterprise and group goals.
- Develops solutions and makes recommendations based on an understanding of the business strategy and stakeholder needs.
- Participates in project/program design and provides advice & subject matter expertise to achieve required business results.
- Conducts analysis required to inform strategic recommendations and considers the “big picture” when assessing whether or not a course of action is advisable in terms of the group and enterprise goals.
- Collaborates with internal & external stakeholders to provide business context in the design,



develop and implementation of programs & solutions.
- Breaks down strategic problems, and analyzes data and information to provide insights and recommendations.
- Monitors and tracks performance and addresses any issues.
- 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.
- Identifies enablers and key issues prior to and during implementation, raises issues with stakeholders and offers solutions to resolve issues or risks that jeopardize delivery.
- Operates at a group/enterprise-wide level and serves as a senior specialist resource across BMO.
- Influences how teams/groups work together.
- Applies expertise and thinks creatively to address unique or ambiguous situations and to find solutions to multiple, interdependent, complex problems.
- Communicates abstract concepts in simple terms.
- Fosters strong internal and external networks and works with and across multiple teams to achieve business objectives.
- Anticipates trends and responds by implementing appropriate changes.
- Broader work or accountabilities may be assigned as needed

Qualifications

- Master’s Degree or PhD in Artificial Intelligence or related domain
- Typically, 10+ years of relevant experience as a Leader in AI Research with significant Technology background.
- Experience building partnerships with Academia, Industry Leaders, Tech AI Labs, Research Parties, AI Conference participation
- Seasoned expert with extensive industry knowledge.
- Technical leader viewed as a thought leader for innovation.
- Verbal & written communication skills - Expert.
- Analytical and problem-solving skills - Expert.
- Influence skills - Expert.
- Collaboration & team skills; with a focus on cross-group collaboration - Expert.
- Able to manage ambiguity.

📌 Director, AI Research & Ecosystems (Toronto)
🏢 BMO
📍 Toronto