SASKATOON, September 21, 2010 – BMO Bank of Montreal today announced the appointment of Mike Darling as Vice-President, Saskatchewan District.
Mr. Darling assumes leadership of a team of over 460 professionals who serve customers through BMO’s network of 29 branches in Saskatchewan.
“Throughout his career, Mike has demonstrated a commitment and passion to customer service and business development while leading his teams to superior performance,” said Robert Hayes, Senior Vice-President, Prairies Division, BMO Bank of Montreal. “I am confident that Mike will ensure that our employees offer clients an exceptional banking experience and personalized financial solutions during each branch visit or conversation.”
Mr. Darling holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of New Brunswick and a Masters of Business degree from Dalhousie University. He has over 23 years of experience in financial services, mostly in sales and relationship management. Previously Mr. Darling was Managing Director, Ontario & Atlantic, Dealership Finance for BMO Bank of Montreal.
Mr. Darling has been active in business community initiatives such as involvement on various Chambers of Commerce.
Mr. Darling arrives as BMO continues to grow market share in business banking in Saskatchewan, with a particular focus on serving the agriculture industry. Most recently in the aftermath of this year’s heavy rainfall and devastating floods, BMO Bank of Montreal introduced a Financial Flood Relief Program for its customers affected by the extensive damage.
“We stand by our customers through good and bad times. This program is specifically designed for producers directly affected by the flooding and those in related industries who will face cash-flow challenges in the coming months given their dependence on a productive agriculture industry,” said Mr. Darling. Under the Financial Flood Relief program BMO customers can apply for deferred principal payments and a waiver of new loan application or renewal fees. The program is available until November 30, 2011, giving producers time to market a portion of next year’s crop.
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