Office of the Chairman and CEO

Eric Jolliffe, O.O.M., MA, BA, CMM III

York Region Chairman and CEO Eric Jolliffe is a distinguished public servant and senior executive with an extraordinary career spanning decades in leadership, governance and community development. As the seventh Chairman and CEO of The Regional Municipality of York, he oversees one of Canada’s largest and most dynamic regions, serving more than 1.25 million residents across nine cities and towns.

A visionary leader, Chairman Jolliffe brings a proven track record of organizational transformation, values-based leadership and strategic planning. His leadership is defined by a steadfast commitment to public service and an unwavering focus on fostering innovation, collaboration and equity throughout York Region.

Previously, Chairman Jolliffe served as Chief of Police for York Regional Police from 2010 to 2020, responsible for managing a $400 million budget and leading over 2,300 sworn officers and civilian members. Under his stewardship, York Regional Police became a national leader in public safety, technological innovation and community engagement. He developed and implemented strategic initiatives that transformed organizational culture, prioritized diversity, equity and inclusion and enhanced trust and collaboration across diverse communities. His forward-thinking approach led to groundbreaking programs in mental health crisis response, road safety and victim services.

In his role as Chairman and CEO, Eric Jolliffe leverages his extensive experience to guide York Region through a period of unprecedented growth and opportunity. His leadership is instrumental in shaping York Region’s strategic vision, with a focus on sustainable development, innovation and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. Chairman Jolliffe works collaboratively with York Regional Council, staff, senior governments and community partners to advance bold initiatives in affordable housing, transportation and transit, environmental stewardship and economic development.

As an ex-officio member of all Regional Committees, Chairman Jolliffe plays a pivotal role in governance and decision-making. He also sits on the Board for YorkNet and serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the York Region Rapid Transit Board, contributing to the development of critical infrastructure and connectivity across the Region. Additionally, he represents York Region on the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority Board of Directors, where he advocates for sustainable environmental practices that will benefit the community and future generations.

Eric Jolliffe holds a Master’s Degree in Leadership from Royal Roads University and a Bachelor of Arts from York University. He is a Certified Municipal Manager (CMM III), reflecting his expertise in municipal operations and public administration. His professional competencies include risk and change management, business transformation, financial oversight and human resources strategy, enabling him to lead complex organizations and deliver innovative, results-driven solutions.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Chairman Jolliffe is a passionate advocate for community service. He has served on the boards of Southlake Regional Health Centre Foundation and St. Andrew’s College and has supported numerous charitable organizations, including Big Brothers Big Sisters of York Region, 360 Kids, Special Olympics Ontario and Wounded Warriors Canada. His efforts have positively impacted countless lives and reflect his belief in building strong, inclusive communities.

Throughout his illustrious career, Chairman Jolliffe has received numerous accolades, including the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond and Golden Jubilee Medals, named an Officer of the Order of Merit of the Police Forces (O.O.M.) and receiving the Order of the City of Vaughan. In recognition of his contributions, York Regional Council named the Eric Jolliffe Training Centre for Leadership and Learning in his honour and proclaimed April 30, 2020, as Eric Jolliffe Day.

As the seventh Chairman and CEO in York Region’s 54-year history, Eric Jolliffe continues to lead with a vision for a brighter, more equitable future. His dedication to innovation, sustainability and collaboration ensures York Region remains a vibrant, thriving community where residents and businesses flourish. Chairman Jolliffe’s legacy is one of transformative leadership, meaningful community impact and an enduring commitment to 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