BMO Financial CEO receives award for service to United Way Canada

United Way Canada has awarded Bill Downe, president and chief executive officer of BMO Financial Group and 2009 United Way Toronto Campaign chair, with the Chair’s Award of Distinction.
The award recognizes volunteers that demonstrate leadership, value community engagement and show sustained dedication to United Way.
Toronto-based BMO Financial Group will close on its acquisition of Milwaukee-based Marshall & Ilaley Corp. today.
“In 2009, as the city was reeling from a recession, United Way raised a remarkable $107.5-million for our community,” said Susan McIsaac, president and CEO of United Way Toronto. “It was one of our toughest campaigns and we knew the need was great. Bill led with compassion and was instrumental in our success. As campaign chair, he brought community leaders together and encouraged everyone to dig deep in support of our city.”
Downe has been a United Way supporter since 1983.