BMO Bank of Montreal today appointed Janet Peddigrew as vp of its retail banking operations in Newfoundland & Labrador, the first woman to hold this executive position.

Peddigrew will be responsible for the performance of 230 professionals who serve customers through BMO’s network of 24 branches in Newfoundland & Labrador.

Peddigrew was born in Labrador City and grew up in Wabush. She holds an MBA in Financial Services from Dalhousie University and has 23 years experience with BMO Bank of Montreal. She began her career in 1984, at the Village Mall branch in St. John’s. Prior to her appointment, she was senior manager for specialized distribution programs, including mortgage specialists and in-store banking, at BMO’s corporate headquarters in Toronto.

Peddigrew assumes her new position following the retirement of Jack Hillyard after more than 37 years of distinguished service with BMO Bank of Montreal. “I wish to thank Jack for his invaluable contribution to BMO and I’m happy that he will continue to be an ambassador at large for our organization,” said Steve Murphy, senior vp, Atlantic Provinces division, BMO Bank of Montreal, in a release.