Sr. Director, Assistant Corporate Secretary

What you'll be doing 

The Senior Director, Assistant Corporate Secretary is a management role responsible for leadership of key corporate governance and operations within the Corporate Secretary Division. Reporting to the Vice-President, Corporate Secretary, you will oversee Board Services for the CIBC Board of Directors, manage a high-performing team, and act as a trusted advisor to senior leaders and directors—ensuring regulatory compliance, confidentiality, and the highest standards of governance. 

You will oversee effective governance and operational processes for the CIBC Board, providing direction on regulatory and governance matters, and delivering accurate and impactful Board reporting. In consultation with the Vice-President, Corporate Secretary, you will lead the Board Services team to deliver operational excellence. Core accountabilities include proactively identifying and solving problems, safeguarding confidential information, and ensuring the highest standards of execution, accuracy, and service across Board Services activities. 

At CIBC, we foster a work environment where you can thrive. You’ll have flexibility to manage your work activities within a hybrid arrangement, spending time both on-site and remotely. 

How you'll succeed 

• Governance Leadership & Advisory- Manage the Board Services team within the Corporate Secretary Division, ensuring the highest standards of corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and confidentiality across Board-related activities. Oversee compliance with governance standards, including the preparation of regulatory filings and communications. Lead the development, implementation, and maintenance of key policies, governance frameworks, Board and Committee mandates, and procedures. Advise on governance trends, best practices, and regulatory requirements. 

• Board Support, Reporting & Communications- Act as secretary for designated Board Committees, leading the preparation of governance-related reporting and briefings. Direct the planning, coordination, and execution of Board and Committee meetings, including all logistics from preparation to follow-up. Oversee communications to Board and senior leaders, coordinate with internal stakeholders for accurate and efficient execution, and ensure the quality of meeting materials and Board records. 

• Operational Management -  Drive governance projects aligned with Board and CIBC strategic objectives, collaborating with internal stakeholders to deliver seamless secretarial services. Lead process improvements to enhance operational efficiency and service quality, ensuring adherence to all procedures and standards. Champion innovation by providing thought leadership to streamline and elevate Board Services. 

• Stakeholder Engagement, Relations & Industry Advocacy- Foster strong relationships with Board members, senior management, and other key stakeholders, serving as a primary contact for Board Services and collaborating across the organization. Participate in industry forums, contribute to advocacy positions on corporate governance, and build relationships with peer governance professionals. 

• Innovation and Operational Excellence-  Champion innovation and operational excellence by leading projects and providing thought leadership to streamline and elevate Board Services. Lead governance projects aligned with Board objectives, driving process improvements to enhance operational efficiency and service quality. 

Who you are 

• You're passionate about governance and precision. You thrive in environments requiring attention to detail, accuracy, confidentiality, and high standards. 

• You have a degree/diploma in Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.), Juris Doctorate (J.D.), or Bachelor of Civil Laws (B.C.L.); Member in good standing of a Canadian Law Society.

• You demonstrate a minimum 10 years in a Canadian or US law firm or corporation, focused on corporate governance, securities law, or financial services regulation. In-depth knowledge of legal and regulatory environments for financial institutions, including the Bank Act, OSFI guidelines, and securities law.

• You are a caring and accountable leader. You have experience managing teams, coaching employees, and inspiring successful performance. You enjoy collaborating with team members to identify solutions to complex issues. 

• You know that details matter. Your critical thinking skills and attention to detail inform your decision making. 

• You're motivated by collective success. You value teamwork and believe that strong relationships drive results. 

• You give meaning to complex information. You enjoy investigating governance issues, interpreting regulations, problem-solving, and clear and effective communication.