Gail S. Palac

Gail Palac is Chief Auditor, BMO Financial Group. She was appointed to the position in February 2018, and is responsible for providing independent audit advice and counsel to the CEO and Board of Directors of BMO Financial Group, driving positive change across the organization. Gail provides executive leadership to BMO’s staff of audit professionals, identifying insights into current, emerging and potential issues, trends, and opportunities that will enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the company and its control processes. She also liaises extensively with external regulators, ensuring the bank’s audit organization practices and employees continually evolve to meet heightened regulatory expectations.

Gail’s career includes over 25 years of experience across a wide variety of banking roles within BMO and BMO Harris. Prior to her most recent role as U.S. Chief Auditor, she provided executive leadership and strategic direction to a team of operations professionals managing corporate loan administration and loan servicing for BMO worldwide.

Gail attended Northern Illinois University and graduated with honours with a Bachelor of Science degree (double major in accounting and finance). She also has her CPA designation and is a member of the Illinois CPA Society and the Institute of Internal Auditors.