CIBC, a leading financial institution, has announced the appointment of Kikelomo (Kike) Lawal as Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer, effective October 12th. Lawal, a seasoned legal professional with over 20 years of leadership experience, joins CIBC from Interac Corporation, where she currently serves as Chief Legal Officer, Ombudsman, and Corporate Secretary.
Lawal’s extensive legal background includes roles as a trial lawyer and transactional lawyer, with licenses to practice law in Toronto and New York. She has held senior positions at prominent firms such as Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP, and Carter Ledyard & Milburn LLP. Notably, Lawal led numerous initiatives during Interac Corporation’s restructuring in 2018, establishing the organization as a fully integrated share capital corporation.
In her new role at CIBC, Lawal will oversee the bank’s global legal function, corporate secretary, ombudsman, and privacy office functions. She will also join CIBC’s executive committee, reporting directly to President and CEO Victor Dodig.
Victor Dodig praised Lawal’s strategic approach and strong business acumen, emphasizing her role in advancing the bank’s relationship-oriented approach in the modern world. Lawal’s advocacy for inclusion aligns with CIBC’s commitment to diversity and inclusion initiatives, especially in light of increasing pressure from investors to enhance workforce diversity.
With Lawal’s appointment, CIBC aims to further strengthen its position as a leader in the financial industry, leveraging her expertise to navigate complex legal landscapes and drive strategic initiatives. Lawal’s track record of leadership and her dedication to inclusion make her a valuable addition to CIBC’s executive team, as the bank continues to focus on delivering exceptional value to its clients and stakeholders.
As CIBC looks ahead to the future, Lawal’s leadership will play a crucial role in shaping the bank’s legal strategy, fostering a culture of compliance and integrity, and supporting its commitment to responsible banking practices. With Lawal at the helm of its legal function, CIBC is poised to navigate regulatory challenges effectively and drive sustainable growth in an ever-evolving financial landscape.
