Two of the bank's employees are rewriting the map to success and giving other women the chance to follow in their footsteps
In the dynamic world of Canadian mortgages, two women stand out as beacons of leadership, resilience, and inspiration: Barbara Cook (pictured, top left) and Paula Oliveira (pictured, top right) of BMO.
Their journeys, marked by perseverance and a commitment to uplifting others, have not only propelled their own careers but have also paved the way for future generations of women leaders in the industry.
Championing resilience and inclusion
Cook’s career is a testament to the power of empathy. As a woman in the mortgage industry, the senior business development manager acknowledges the unique challenges she has faced.
“While there have been moments where I’ve had to work hard to be heard, those experiences have strengthened my voice and commitment to creating space for others. It’s also deepened my resolve to mentor and uplift women across the industry, she says.”
Beyond her work at BMO, Cook also serves as chair of Mortgage Professionals Canada, viewing this role as another platform to drive meaningful change. “This was more than just a responsibility for me to fulfil; it demonstrated earned trust and leadership at an industry-wide level,” she says.
Her commitment to inclusion is equally unwavering as she explains, “It is a core driver of innovation and team strength.” By mentoring those considering career changes and supporting emerging talent, Cook ensures that the industry’s future is both accessible and innovative.
Her visibility as a multi-year honouree on industry lists is an accolade she embraces with humility. “I absolutely hope to inspire others, especially those just starting out, to believe in their potential, share their perspectives, and know that leadership comes in many forms.”
For Cook, every step forward is an opportunity to remind future women leaders that their expertise and ideas are valued and needed.
Purposeful leadership and empowerment
Oliveira’s story is one of progression and adaptability. With over 25 years in financial services, most of them at BMO, Oliveira has advanced through senior roles in retail banking, developing expertise in coaching, talent retention, and strategy, and is currently regional vice president, Ontario and Atlantic Canada for BMO BrokerEdge.
Her style of leadership is intentional, and she says, “I approach every role with purpose, seizing opportunities to grow and lead.”
This vision and adaptability culminated in her leading the launch of BMO BrokerEdge into the mortgage broker channel in 2023.
Oliveira takes great satisfaction and pride from enabling others to shine. She adds, “One of the most meaningful achievements of my career has been the opportunity to lead diverse teams and continuously evolve my leadership style through those experiences. Witnessing team members grow in confidence, take on new roles, and achieve their professional goals brings me lasting fulfilment.”
While she acknowledges that gender can shape experiences, Oliveira feels fortunate to have worked in environments where she has been supported and empowered. She is dedicated to ensuring others feel the same sense of belonging and adds, “No one’s growth should be limited by their identity.”
Her commitment to community and inclusion extends beyond BMO. Oliveira has served with the Abrigo Centre, supporting programs focused on violence against women, and has been an active participant and ally in several Employee Resource Groups, including BMO Pride and BMO For Women.
Inspiring the next generation
Both Cook and Oliveira exemplify what it means to be role models in the Canadian mortgage industry. Their stories speak to their personal achievements, lifting others, championing inclusion, and driving positive change, all while driving significant business successes.
As they continue to lead in their roles and mentor the next generation, their impacts will be felt for years to come, affirming that women’s voices and leadership are powerful, and organizations thrive when their perspectives are included at the table.
The Women of Influence pay tribute to the exceptional women leaders they work alongside daily, including Christina Tsiokos, Shreeti Talevski, Livia Pellegrino, and Angelica Schnoremberger Kussler.
