CIBC Enterprise Technology Townhall insights

Recently, as SVP, Enterprise Technology, I had the privilege of hosting our Enterprise Technology townhall. Our team plays a key role in ensuring CIBC’s operational excellence, enhancing efficiencies, and positioning CIBC for transformation and success, and this town hall was a chance to come together to look ahead at the changing landscape of technology, risk, and the economy.

Looking to the future, our team’s role will be increasingly important as we drive CIBC’s technology modernization and ensure we are well positioned to meet new challenges and opportunities.

We covered a lot of ground – from AI to risk management to the economy – and I’d like to share my take on the ideas and insights shared throughout the day:

We were joined by Gregg Mattek, who leads Google’s AI teams in North America, for a dynamic discussion on the evolution of artificial intelligence. Mattek highlighted how AI has moved from experimental to essential, becoming core to business strategy and operations. He noted that while the initial excitement around generative AI has given way to a more pragmatic approach, the long-term impact of AI will be even greater than we can imagine today. Mattek emphasized that security and responsible use are top priorities as organizations deploy AI tools and agents at scale. He encouraged teams to make AI accessible across all roles, fostering a culture of experimentation and continuous learning. “The best way to prepare for the future,” Mattek advised, “is to use AI every day — and empower everyone to build and refine their own agents.”

Frank Guse, CIBC’s Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Risk Officer, joined us to discuss the interplay between risk management and technological innovation in a rapidly changing world. Guse stressed the importance of a strong risk culture — one built on integrity, transparency, taking ownership and proactive decision-making. He encouraged team members to speak up, act early if something feels off, and remember that risk management is about making informed, risk-aware decisions, not avoiding risk altogether.

Andrew Grantham, CIBC Senior Economist, provided an update on the Canadian and U.S. economic landscape. He outlined how shifting trade policies, demographic changes, and global uncertainty are influencing growth prospects. While the road to recovery may be long and winding, Grantham noted that Canada is positioned to avoid recession and benefit from targeted stimulus. He also highlighted the importance of sector resilience, especially in homebuilding, and the need for ongoing adaptability as interest rates and policy evolve.

The townhall reinforced CIBC’s commitment to modernization — not just through technology, but through a culture of collaboration, curiosity, and shared ownership. As the bank continues to transform, leaders emphasized that lasting value comes from integrating people, processes, and technology in service of clients’ ambitions. By fostering a strong risk culture and embracing the possibilities of AI, CIBC is well positioned to navigate change and lead with confidence.