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BMO
“ My team focuses on expanding and optimizing our branch network in both the US and Canada, working closely with partners across corporate real estate, marketing, technology, and other groups to ensure we have the right presence in the right markets. Our goal is to create welcoming environments where clients feel comfortable seeking advice and support, while positioning the business for sustainable growth and the opportunity to serve more customers over time.
“ When it comes to deciding where to invest and expand, we consider a range of factors,” he continues.“ Economic conditions and growth opportunities are key, but we also pay close attention to demographic trends, including population growth and migration patterns, to ensure we’ re located where our clients need us most. Convenience is critical, so we look to establish a presence in strong retail hubs and high-traffic areas where customers are already meeting their day-to-day needs. Ultimately, it’ s about making banking accessible and ensuring clients can easily access the advice and services they’ re looking for.”
The 2023 acquisition of Bank of the West was a significant accelerator for BMO’ s growth in the US. It immediately provided greater scale across the western region, particularly in California, while also giving valuable insight into the markets and communities it serves.
“ Beyond expanding our footprint, the acquisition helped us better understand the needs of clients in those markets, including the unique characteristics and dynamics that influence how people bank and what they expect from their financial institution,” shares Stanjevich, who is also an executive at the Bank.
“ When we think about adding new financial centers or modernizing our existing network, design is a key part of the process. Client needs have become more complex over time, so the role of the financial center has also evolved. While many day-to-day transactions are now handled through digital and selfserve channels, clients increasingly come in for advice, guidance, and support on more complex financial decisions.”
California is a cornerstone of BMO’ s growth strategy and represents one of the bank’ s most significant opportunities for expansion in the US. BMO is focused on strengthening its presence across the state by deepening its footprint in established markets while also expanding into communities where its presence has historically been more limited.
“ Whether they’ re managing everyday banking needs or making more complex financial decisions, we want to be there to help individuals, families, and businesses achieve their goals through meaningful, faceto-face conversations,” Stanjevich elaborates.“ Growth isn’ t just about opening new locations; it’ s also about continuing to invest in the network we already have. For us, expansion and modernization are equally important and work hand in hand. New financial centers allow us to extend our presence into new markets, build greater density in existing ones, and reach more clients. At the same time, renovating and upgrading existing locations helps ensure we’ re meeting evolving customer expectations and creating the best possible experience for both clients and employees.
We actively encourage collaboration, constructive challenge, and open dialogue to make sure we’ re arriving at the strongest possible strategy
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