Carissa Chiakas
Carissa Chiakas is an experienced Business Process Analyst in financial services, specializing in cross-functional process optimization, stakeholder engagement, and strategic risk and compliance leadership. With a strong foundation in project management and operational efficiency, she brings over five years of experience leading high-impact initiatives that drive measurable business outcomes. Currently at BMO, Carissa supports the Business Process team within Client Services & Implementation, focusing on identifying inefficiencies, implementing scalable solutions, and ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
In her current role, Carissa analyzes and models current-state processes, collaborates with business units to define future-state outcomes, and facilitates the development of actionable implementation plans. Her work emphasizes process redesigns that align with strategic priorities, regulatory requirements, and client needs, ensuring quality, timeliness, and cost-effectiveness. She leverages tools such as Microsoft Visio, Planner, SharePoint, Confluence, and Excel to support cross-functional transparency and effective process management.
Prior to her current role, Carissa served as a Project Manager and Business Process Consultant, leading enterprise-level programs that included regulatory reporting enhancements, data transformation, and systems modernization. She holds an MBA in Business Administration, Management, and Operations from California State University, Long Beach, where she graduated with a 4.0 GPA, and is certified as a Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt. Known for her consultative mindset, technical acumen, and collaborative approach, Carissa consistently delivers solutions that enhance efficiency, mitigate risk, and drive continuous improvement across organizations.
• Lean Six Sigma White Belt
• Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt
• California State University, Long Beach
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are creativity, community, and personal fulfillment. I am a lifelong learner and passionate mentor, and I find purpose in teaching ballet and sharing my creativity through baking Mediterranean and European-inspired pastries. I am also deeply committed to service and impact through my involvement with the Regulatory Affairs Professional Society, church volunteer initiatives, and giving back to the communities I serve.