Job-readiness program for newcomers to Canada is recognized for
    innovation, learning and quality

TORONTO, Oct. 23 /CNW/ - CIBC (CM: TSX;NYSE) was honoured at last night's Canadian Society for Training and Development (CSTD) President's Dinner with a Canadian WOW Award for Training Excellence in recognition of the success of its CIBC Connection to Employment initiative. A free, unpaid, five-week job readiness training program led jointly by CIBC and the YMCA, CIBC Connection to Employment prepares qualified newcomers for careers in the Canadian financial services industry.

"We're extremely proud to have the success of CIBC Connection to Employment recognized as we continue to see the positive impact this program has on those who take part in it," said Christina Kramer, CIBC's Executive Vice-President of Retail Markets. "We're confident that through their determination and the new skills they have acquired, graduates of this program will be well positioned to begin new careers in the Canadian financial services industry."

CSTD, Canada's professional association focused on training, learning and performance in the workplace, selected CIBC Connection to Employment for an award based upon their criteria for creativity and innovation, learning, quality and collaboration as well as continuous improvement efforts on behalf of learners.

"This program taught me so much about how to maximize my career search here in Canada," said Felix Quartey, formerly of Ghana. "I met so many amazing people at CIBC and have grown so much."

"There are no words that can express my appreciation for what you and your team have done for me," said graduate Barabara Gu, formerly of China. "The CIBC and YMCA program has opened a door for me in this new country and is providing me an avenue for success."

CIBC Connection to Employment is a component of CIBC YMCA Access to Opportunity™, a broader program which builds on CIBC's continued focus on addressing the distinct needs of newcomers. By proactively informing, educating and creating a marketplace presence to serve the needs of newcomers to Canada, CIBC YMCA Access to Opportunity builds confidence and financial capability through a collaborative and supportive approach.

CIBC takes pride in the diversity of its employee base and strives to ensure that its employees are representative of our clients and their communities. Earlier this month, CIBC launched the CIBC Newcomer to Canada Plan, an all-in-one banking solution to help newcomers to Canada establish their first Canadian banking relationship and to address their most pressing needs upon arrival in Canada: establishing their credit rating, keeping funds and valuables safe, and setting up easy access to their money.

CIBC is a leading North American financial institution with nearly 11 million personal banking and business clients. CIBC offers a full range of products and services through its comprehensive electronic banking network, branches and offices across Canada, in the United States and around the world. You can find other news releases and information about CIBC in our Press Centre on our corporate website at www.cibc.com.