MY CAREER IN SIX SPOTLIGHT
Rose Grande
Head North American Corporate Card Product & Programs
BMO
Sharing her career journey by answering the six questions below.
Who or what has been your biggest source of inspiration throughout your career?
My biggest source of inspiration has always been my dad. He taught me the value of hard work, resilience, advocacy, and—most importantly—really listening with empathy. He immigrated to Canada from Italy, leaving behind his language, family, and career, and rebuilt everything from the ground up. He built a business, a family, and a community of friends and supporters through sheer determination and integrity.
He was not only a great father, but an exceptionally astute businessman. Watching him start over, take risks, and create opportunities inspired me to always want more—not out of ambition for its own sake, but out of a desire to contribute, to add value, and to make a meaningful impact. That’s why he came to Canada, and why I push myself to do more for my family and for the organizations I work with. For me, success has never been about money—it’s about contribution, value, and leaving things better than you found them.
Would you say your success is primarily due to luck or hard work?
A little of both. I’ve been lucky to learn from strong leaders and mentors who helped me see what’s possible. But hard work is what turns opportunity into impact—deeply understanding the business, looking for efficiencies, and consistently bringing something extra to the table. Often, what looks like luck is really the result of doing the work long before the opportunity shows up.
What is the driving force behind your career aspirations?
I’m driven by curiosity and a love of learning. The status quo just isn’t for me—I’m always asking questions and wanting to understand what’s changing and what’s next. Payments is such a dynamic space, with evolving technology and competitive pressure, and that constant change really energizes me. Staying curious and learning as the industry evolves is what keeps me engaged and inspired
If given the chance to do one thing differently in your career, what would it be and why?
If I could do one thing differently, I would have trusted myself and advocated for myself sooner. Early in my career, I often assumed others knew more or were more deserving of the opportunity in front of me. I wish I had realized earlier that I had earned the right to be there and to be recognized.
That said, the journey taught me a lot about who I am and the kind of leader I want to be, so I don’t see it as a mistake—more as a meaningful lesson. It’s shaped how I now encourage others, especially women, to speak up, own their value, and trust themselves sooner than I did.
What was your most favourite job/role and why?
My favorite role is the one I’m in right now. It allows me to lean into my love of learning and curiosity while also working with people every single day—my team, clients, partners, and vendors. No two days are the same, and while some days are challenging, that’s true of any role. What really makes it meaningful is seeing team brainstorming turn into real momentum and better client experiences. As a leader, I also have the privilege of helping others grow in their careers by creating opportunities and supporting their development. I genuinely love working with people, and this role brings all of that together for me.
Do you have a favourite motto or quote that guides your professional life?
My guiding motto is “hope is not a strategy.” To me, it means that nothing changes unless you take action. When I feel stuck, it reminds me to stop waiting and start doing—progress comes from moving, not hoping.”