Melissa Fifield

Melissa Fifield is a sustainability leader and the managing director and head of the BMO Climate Institute, where she develops climate solutions by integrating science, policy, finance, and economics. With more than 20 years of experience, Fifield has led programs across the United States and internationally, focusing on environmental and social impact. Under her leadership, the BMO Climate Institute has produced research on climate-related finance, including studies on the profitability of zero-carbon buildings and the business impacts of water scarcity, establishing the institute in climate strategy and resilience.

Before joining BMO, Fifield held senior roles in corporate social responsibility and sustainability at Bank of the West, where she advanced strategic partnerships and policies. At Gap Inc., she led environmental sustainability initiatives across product development and operations, including co-leading the USAID + Gap Inc. Women + Water Alliance, a public-private partnership aimed at improving the well-being of communities affected by the apparel industry. Fifield also serves as chair of the Apparel Impact Institute board of directors and is a founding member of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition.

Fifield has been recognized with honors such as Sustainability Thought Leader of the Year, Americas, by Environmental Finance. She is a frequent speaker on climate action, featured in podcasts, industry panels, and research publications. Her work focuses on bridging equity and environmental stewardship and translating climate challenges into business strategies in the sustainability field.