Back-to-back awards recognize BMO’s leadership in supplier diversity and inclusivity
This month, BMO and the Supplier Diversity Program were honoured twice by two leading organizations dedicated to supporting diverse businesses and professionals.
On November 8, the Canadian Gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) — which helps link LGBT+ businesses in Canada to the wider business community — awarded BMO its prestigious National Corporation of the Year award for our role in Boldly Growing the Good and driving economic growth in the LGBT+ community.
Then, on November 14, Women Business Enterprise (WBE) Canada — a not-for-profit working to connect Canadian women-owned businesses with corporate and government buyers across North America — presented our Procurement team with its Most Improved Supplier Diversity Program award. The award recognizes the efforts of our Supplier Diversity Program to increase the bank’s spend with certified diverse women entrepreneurs, as well as our BMO for Women program, which offers women entrepreneurs thought-leadership, support, partnership, networking, education and more.
“These awards underscore all the hard work we’ve put into our commitment to double the good for an inclusive society,” says Catherine Grosz, Manager of Supplier Diversity, who was also recognized individually as the WBE Canada Champion of the Year. “We’ve always been a leader in supporting diverse businesses across Canada and the U.S., and we’re honoured to have that work recognized.”
As part of the WBE Canada’s 10th Anniversary Awards Gala, BMO was also recognized for our corporate contribution as a founding member of the organization.
Our partnership with diverse suppliers is a key component of our overall diversity strategy and reflects our commitment to growing the good.
“Our Supplier Diversity Program is an example of what makes BMO so special and the positive impact we can have on our communities as we Boldly Grow the Good in business and life,” says Andrew Cieslak, Global Chief Procurement Officer. “I want to thank everyone for being proactive and building the strong relationships we have with all of our diverse suppliers as we continue to pursue our leading ambition.”
Learn more about why diversity and inclusion matter so much at BMO.
