Manager, Corporate Communications

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Manager, Corporate Communications

🔹 Company: BMO (Bank of Montreal)

🔹 Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada

🔹 Job Type: Full-time

🔹 Category: Corporate Affairs

🔹 Date Posted: April 29, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years

🔹 Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Acting as a trusted advisor to assigned business groups, influencing and negotiating to achieve business objectives
• Developing and implementing communication strategies and solutions that effectively support and address communication needs
• Leading the communication strategy planning process, bringing strategic, professional communications counsel, planning, and direction to leaders
• Monitoring and tracking performance, and making recommendations for improvements based on insights
• Collaborating with internal and external stakeholders to provide business context in the design, development, and implementation of communication solutions

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of communication skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to work effectively with various stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in corporate communications and experience working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Assesses communications needs, recommends communication plans and solutions, secures necessary approvals, and creates/delivers communication solutions that effectively support and address communications needs

✅ Sources content and feedback, assesses information, and translates thoughts into effective communications solutions

✅ Develops strategies and tools to measure, analyze, and report on the effectiveness of communications initiatives

✅ Leads business/group change management activities from a communications perspective

✅ Gathers content from multiple sources and develops communications for various vehicles, including leadership messages, intranets, town halls, newsletters, video, presentations, and new social media

✅ Assists and/or leads planning, development, and execution of events and conferences

✅ Acts as lead communications role in coded/confidential projects

✅ Reviews progress to plans and escalates complaints, issues, and concerns

✅ Recommends, develops, and executes communication plans and solutions based on an understanding of the business strategy and stakeholder needs, and in alignment with an overarching communication strategy

✅ Proactively collaborates with internal and external stakeholders to provide business context in the design, development, and implementation of communication solutions

✅ Leads or participates in defining communication plans designed to positively influence or change behavior; develops tailored messaging; identifies appropriate distribution channels

ASSUMPTION: This role involves a high degree of autonomy and requires strong judgment to identify, diagnose, and solve problems within given rules. The ideal candidate will be able to work independently and regularly handle non-routine situations.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Journalism, or a related field of study

Experience: Typically between 5 - 7 years of relevant experience

Required Skills:

• In-depth writing and editing skills
• Ability to take technical and complex information and distill it to key messages that make sense for the audience
• Deep knowledge and technical proficiency gained through extensive education and business experience
• In-depth 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 skills

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working in the financial services industry
• Bilingual (English/French) skills

ASSUMPTION: While a degree in a related field is preferred, equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered. Strong writing and editing skills are essential for success in this role.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: CAD 68,000 - 126,000 per year

Benefits:

• Health Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Accident Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Retirement Savings Plans

Working Hours: Full-time, typically Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with flexibility for project demands

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for a Manager, Corporate Communications role in Toronto. The actual salary may vary based on factors such as experience, qualifications, and company performance.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Financial Services. BMO is one of the largest banks in Canada, offering a wide range of personal and commercial banking, wealth management, and investment banking services.

Company Size: 10,001+ employees. As a large organization, BMO offers numerous opportunities for career growth and development.

Founded: 1817. BMO has a long history and a strong reputation for stability and reliability in the financial industry.

Company Description:

• BMO is committed to helping people at every stage of their financial lives
• The company offers a wide range of financial services, including personal banking, commercial banking, wealth management, capital markets, and asset management
• BMO is dedicated to providing the best possible banking experience for its customers

Company Specialties:

• Personal Banking
• Commercial Banking
• Wealth Management
• Capital Markets
• Asset Management

Company Website: http://www.bmo.com

ASSUMPTION: BMO is a well-established and reputable financial institution with a strong commitment to its customers and employees. The company offers a comprehensive benefits package and opportunities for career growth and development.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: Mid-level management. This role reports directly to the Head of Corporate Affairs and has supervisory responsibilities for junior communications team members.

Reporting Structure: The Manager, Corporate Communications reports directly to the Head of Corporate Affairs and has a dotted-line reporting relationship with business group leaders.

Work Arrangement: On-site, with the possibility of occasional remote work for specific projects or tasks.

Growth Opportunities:

• Progression to a Senior Manager or Director role within the Corporate Affairs function
• Expansion into other areas of the business, such as Marketing or Investor Relations
• Opportunities to lead high-profile projects or initiatives

ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant opportunities for career growth and development within the Corporate Affairs function and across the broader organization.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Corporate headquarters with a modern, collaborative work environment

Office Location(s): First Canadian Place, 100 King Street West, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Geographic Context:

• Toronto is a multicultural city with a diverse range of neighborhoods and attractions
• The downtown core offers easy access to public transportation, shopping, dining, and entertainment options
• BMO's headquarters is located in the heart of the downtown financial district

Work Schedule: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with flexibility for project demands

ASSUMPTION: The work environment at BMO's headquarters is professional and collaborative, with a strong focus on teamwork and cross-functional collaboration.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Online application and resume submission
• Phone or video screen with a member of the HR team
• In-person or video interview with the hiring manager and/or other team members
• Final interview with the Head of Corporate Affairs
• Background check and offer of employment

Key Assessment Areas:

• Communication skills and ability to distill complex information
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Experience working in a corporate environment and with senior stakeholders
• Cultural fit and alignment with BMO's values

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role
• Demonstrate your ability to take complex information and distill it into clear, concise messages
• Showcase your experience working with senior stakeholders and driving strategic communications initiatives
• Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your communication skills, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities

ATS Keywords: Corporate Communications, Manager, Strategic Communications, Stakeholder Relations, Change Management, Communications Planning, Message Development, Event Planning, Project Management

ASSUMPTION: BMO uses an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to manage job applications. Including relevant keywords in your resume and cover letter can help ensure that your application is properly screened and considered for the role.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Communication and collaboration platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack)
• Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
• Social media management tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Sprout Social)

ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have experience using a variety of communication and collaboration tools, as well as project management software.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Integrity: Doing what's right, always
• Accountability: Taking ownership and delivering on our commitments
• Respect: Valuing diversity and treating everyone with dignity
• Innovation: Embracing change and driving progress
• Customer focus: Putting customers first in all we do

Work Style:

• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Fast-paced and dynamic
• Results-driven and focused on delivering high-quality work
• Adaptable and open to change

Self-Assessment Questions:

• Do you have a proven track record of driving strategic communications initiatives in a corporate environment?
• Are you comfortable working with senior stakeholders and influencing their decisions?
• Do you thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment?
• Are you committed to delivering high-quality work and exceeding expectations?

ASSUMPTION: BMO values diversity and inclusion, and is committed to creating an inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and respected. The ideal candidate will be a strong cultural fit with BMO's values and work style.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Managing multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Working with diverse stakeholders, each with their own communication needs and preferences
• Balancing strategic thinking with tactical execution
• Adapting to changes in the business or external environment

ASSUMPTION: The Manager, Corporate Communications role can be challenging at times, but offers significant opportunities for growth and development. The ideal candidate will be adaptable, resilient, and able to thrive in a dynamic work environment.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• Compared to other Manager, Corporate Communications roles, this position offers a broader range of responsibilities and the opportunity to work with senior stakeholders across the organization
• In the financial services industry, corporate communications roles often require a strong understanding of the business and the ability to work with complex, technical information
• Career progression in corporate communications typically involves moving into more senior roles within the function or transitioning into related roles, such as Marketing or Investor Relations

ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity to work with senior stakeholders and drive strategic communications initiatives in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and executing a comprehensive communication plan for a major organizational restructuring
• Creating and delivering leadership messages to employees across the organization on a wide range of topics
• Planning and executing a high-profile event or conference, such as an annual general meeting or industry conference

ASSUMPTION: The Manager, Corporate Communications role involves a wide range of responsibilities and the opportunity to work on high-profile, strategic projects.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• Can you describe the team structure and dynamics within the Corporate Affairs function?
• How does this role collaborate with other functions, such as Marketing or Investor Relations?
• What are the most pressing communication challenges facing the organization, and how can this role help address them?
• What opportunities are there for growth and development within the Corporate Affairs function and across the broader organization?
• How does BMO support work-life balance for its employees?

ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful, insightful questions during the interview process demonstrates your interest in the role and your commitment to understanding the organization's priorities and culture.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through the following link: https://bmo.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/External/job/Toronto-ON-CAN/Manager--Corporate-Communications_R250010414
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
• Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your communication skills, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities
• Research BMO's corporate communications function and recent initiatives to demonstrate your understanding of the organization and its priorities
• Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your continued interest in the role

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.