On-the-Ground and In-the-Headlines

Project Overview

A core Milwaukee corporate citizen for decades, Marshall & Ilsley Corp. (M&I), took its presence in Milwaukee seriously. When M&I became BMO Harris Bank, new leaders wanted to make clear their continued commitment to Milwaukee and sought to continue a relationship with an on-the-ground and in-the-know Milwaukee-based communications firm. Mueller Communications fit the bill, not only because of the firm’s existing and long-standing relationship with the former M&I Bank and its leaders, but because Mueller Communications knows Milwaukee and Wisconsin.

The Challenge

When M&I Bank became BMO Harris Bank, new leadership feared the community would no longer view the bank as “local” and set out to make clear its commitment to the Milwaukee region.

The Solution

Guided by a community relations and earned media strategy created by Mueller Communications, BMO executives seamlessly stepped into the community spotlight previously occupied by M&I Bank. From thought leadership in local business publications, to civic engagement and strategic corporate and philanthropic efforts, BMO remained top of mind in the community, and among key influencers and decision makers.

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The Results

BMO quickly became a valued community partner and trusted, valued media resource throughout Milwaukee – and maintains that status years after the acquisition. The BMO team continues to rely on Mueller Communications to guide their on-the-ground communications strategy and supports the Mueller team to think outside the box to uncover new, exciting ways to feature executives and initiatives, shine a spotlight on community partners rather than the bank, and drive investment in and engagement with the greater Milwaukee and Wisconsin communities it serves.