BMO Financial Group opened a commercial banking office in Grand Rapids, MI, led by James Hess, managing director for Michigan for the company. The office is comprised of five commercial bankers focused on diversified industries, equipment finance and treasury and payment solutions, all supported by BMO’s national industry sector expertise.

“Grand Rapids and the surrounding area represent a very appealing market for us given the growth potential and its proximity to our footprint in both the United States and Canada,” Ray Whitacre, co-head of U.S. commercial banking at BMO Financial Group, said. “We’ve had commercial clients in Michigan for decades, but with this office we can provide the breadth and depth of BMO’s capabilities and services to our existing and prospective clients from a team of experienced commercial bankers who are based in the area and know the market well.”

“BMO’s cross-border banking capabilities are a market differentiator, and considering that Canada is Michigan’s top export market, we see tremendous opportunity to serve clients doing business on both sides of the border,” Hess said.

The team at the new office will be focused on a variety of industries, including manufacturing, distribution, transportation, engineering and construction, food and business services.