M&T Bank Corporation announced it has appointed Sarah Knakmuhs as chief communications officer.

In this newly created role, Knakmuhs will continue to evolve and mature M&T's communication platforms and capabilities to enhance the bank's profile and strengthen engagement with stakeholders, including employees, shareholders, the media, and the communities M&T serves. Knakmuhs will report to Chris Kay, head of Enterprise Platforms, and is based in Washington, D.C.

"Sarah's appointment to Chief Communications Officer represents an important step toward enhancing M&T Bank's ongoing dialogue with our internal and external audiences," said Kay. "Sarah's extensive background in strategic communications, focused on helping companies protect their valuations and reputations, reflects M&T's commitment to attracting extraordinary talent. We are excited to have Sarah join as chief communications officer."

Knakmuhs previously served as senior counselor at global advisory group H/Advisors Abernathy where she built the D.C. office and provided strategic communications counsel to regulated companies navigating complex issues. Before this role, Knakmuhs spent over 14 years at a Fortune 200 company where she held senior roles encompassing government affairs and public policy, brand, and investor relations.