Director, AI Research & Ecosystems

08/30/2026

Address:

100 King Street West

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 new 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 analyses 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.
• 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.
• Data driven decision making - Expert.

$121,600.00 - $211,800.00

Salaried

The above represents BMO Financial Group’s pay range and type.

Salaries will vary based on factors such as location, skills, experience, education, and qualifications for the role, and may include a commission structure. Salaries for part-time roles will be pro-rated based on number of hours regularly worked. For commission roles, the salary listed above represents BMO Financial Group’s expected target for the first year in this position.

BMO Financial Group’s total compensation package will vary based on the pay type of the position and may include performance-based incentives, discretionary bonuses, as well as other perks and rewards. BMO also offers health insurance, tuition reimbursement, accident and life insurance, and retirement savings plans. To view more details of our benefits, please visit: https://jobs.bmo.com/global/en/Total-Rewards

About Us

At BMO we are driven by a shared Purpose: Boldly Grow the Good in business and life. It calls on us to create lasting, positive change for our customers, our communities and our people. By working together, innovating and pushing boundaries, we transform lives and businesses, and power economic growth around the world.

As a member of the BMO team you are valued, respected and heard, and you have more ways to grow and make an impact. We strive to help you make an impact from day one – for yourself and our customers. We’ll support you with the tools and resources you need to reach new milestones, as you help our customers reach theirs. From in-depth training and coaching, to manager support and network-building opportunities, we’ll help you gain valuable experience, and broaden your skillset.

To find out more visit us at https://jobs.bmo.com/ca/en.

BMO is committed to an inclusive, equitable and accessible workplace. By learning from each other’s differences, we gain strength through our people and our perspectives. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. To request accommodation, please contact your recruiter.

Note to Recruiters: BMO does not accept unsolicited resumes from any source other than directly from a candidate. Any unsolicited resumes sent to BMO, directly or indirectly, will be considered BMO property. BMO will not pay a fee for any placement resulting from the receipt of an unsolicited resume. A recruiting agency must first have a valid, written and fully executed agency agreement contract for service to submit resumes.