Office of the Chairman and CEO

An Accomplished and Highly Decorated Leader 

Eric Jolliffe brings over 40 years of distinguished service to his new role as Chair of York Region. Born and raised in York Region, he has a deep connection to the community and an unparalleled record of leadership, innovation, and dedication. His career with York Regional Police (YRP) culminated in a decade-long tenure as Chief of Police, where he oversaw transformative initiatives that established YRP as a leader in safety, technological advancement, and community engagement.

Leadership Credentials and Career Highlights 

Chief of Police (2010–2020)

As Chief of Police, Eric led an organization responsible for the safety of 1.2 million residents with over 2,000 employees managing operational and capital budgets in the area of $400 million. He successfully implemented strategic plans, drove cultural transformation, and fostered an environment where staff performed to their highest potential. 

• Directed the creation of North America’s first Human Rights Classroom for Children 
• Transformed YRP into a nationally recognized leader in safety and innovation 
• Facilitated $2 million in fundraising through the Annual Appreciation Dinner 

Decorated Public Servant

Eric’s accolades include the Governor General’s Order of Merit of the Police (O.O.M., M.O.M.), the Order of the City of Vaughan, and both the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond and Golden Jubilee Medals. 

Community Impact

Under his leadership, YRP received national recognition as a Top Employer for Young People and consistently ranked among the Greater Toronto Area’s Top 100 Employers. Eric’s commitment to community values is epitomized by his work supporting shelters, such as the Yellow Brick House, initiatives like the Holiday Heroes campaign, which assisted over 3,000 families annually and championed mental health initiatives both internally and externally. 

Recognized Expertise in Executive Leadership 

Eric’s experience spans operational management, community development, and strategic planning. He holds a Master’s Degree in Leadership from Royal Roads University and a Certified Municipal Manager Designation (CMM3). He is highly skilled in: 

• Performance and HR Management 
• Change Management and Innovation 
• Strategic Partnerships and Policy Development 
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Initiatives 

In his administrative roles, Eric developed budgets in the area of $400 million, oversaw capital projects, and successfully led organizational restructuring efforts that improved efficiency and service delivery. 

Community Engagement and Advocacy 

Eric is deeply committed to supporting vulnerable populations and fostering inclusivity. His efforts have ranged from fundraising for women’s shelters to promoting equity and inclusion through awards and community initiatives. Notably: 

• York Regional Police Training Facility was named in his honour 
• April 30, 2020, was declared Eric Jolliffe Day by York Region Council 

Strategic and Collaborative Leadership for York Region 

Eric’s extensive experience in governance, community engagement, and stakeholder collaboration makes him uniquely qualified to lead York Region through its next chapter of growth and innovation. His vision, rooted in the motto "Deeds Speak," underscores his dedication to taking meaningful actions that benefit the community and ensure its continued success. 

Education 

An accomplished professional, Eric’s diverse and comprehensive educational background in leadership, law enforcement, and management reflects Eric’s steadfast commitment to lifelong learning and excellence in public service.

In the Province of Ontario, Regional Chairs are responsible for chairing Council for the province’s Regional municipalities. As head of Council, the Regional Chair acts as Chief Executive Officer of the municipal corporation, as legislated by section 225 of the Municipal Act.

Regional Council is comprised of 22 members, including the Regional Chair, Mayors from each of the nine local municipalities and twelve Regional Councillors:

• Markham: Four
• Vaughan: Four
• Richmond Hill: Two
• Newmarket: One
• Georgina: One

The Regional Chair is responsible for:

• Putting forth motions and voting on items during Committee of the Whole meetings (as is the case with all members of Regional Council, the Regional Chair has one vote as it relates to Regional issues)
• Opening and presiding over Regional Council meetings and may vote on issues in the event of a tie
• As Head of Council, can declare an emergency under section 4 of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act
• Serving as an ex-officio member of all Regional Committees and acting as a member of the York Regional Police Services Board and York Net and Chief Executive Officer of the York Region Rapid Transit Board
• Under section 225 of the Municipal Act, as Head of Council, provide information and recommendations to Council on its roles to:
• Ensure that administrative policies, practices and procedures are in place to implement Council’s decisions
• Ensure the accountability and transparency of the municipality’s operations, including the activities of its senior management
• Acting as the primary spokesperson on public issues and is York Region’s representative both within and outside the municipality
• Acting as the head of the institution for the purpose of access and privacy under the Municipal Freedom of Information Protection of Privacy Act
• Upholding and promoting the purposes of the municipality
• Promoting York Region locally, nationally and internationally
• Participation in and fostering activities that enhance the economic, social and environmental well-being of York Region and its residents

A listing of Regional Chair Statements are archived on york.ca/newsroom

Individuals and organizations wishing to invite the Regional Chair to an event must submit a formal request using the online form below.

Separate requests are required for congratulatory letters and greetings.

Please note, due to a busy schedule and other obligations, the Chairman is not able to accept every invitation.

Event Request Form

To request a Letter of Greeting or Congratulatory Message, please use the request form below.

The request should be submitted a minimum of four weeks ahead of the deadline.

Letter and Greeting Request Form

Letters of Greeting are issued to institutions, organizations, businesses or individuals for the following events and milestones taking place in York Region:

• Birthdays, anniversaries, retirements
• Conventions and festivals
• Region-wide sports tournaments
• Cultural celebrations
• Charity fundraising galas/events
• Significant awards programs

Letters of Greetings from the Chair are issued at the discretion of The Regional Municipality of York.

They cannot be issued for:

• Matters of political controversy, ideological or religious beliefs, or individual conviction
• Events or organizations that do not contribute to the economic, social and cultural vitality of York Region
• Anything that contravenes Regional policies or bylaws

Provincial and Federal Greetings

To request greetings from the Queen, the Governor General, the Prime Minister, the Lieutenant Governor or the Premier of Ontario, contact their offices directly:

• Premier of Ontario
• Lieutenant Governor of Ontario
• Prime Minister of Canada