Profile: Celebrating one year of OMVIC’s first Chief Consumer Protection Officer

Profile: Celebrating one year of OMVIC’s first Chief Consumer Protection Officer 

As we celebrate Jeff Donnelly’s one-year anniversary as Chief Consumer Protection Officer (CCPO) at OMVIC, we recognize his significant contributions to consumer protection through his experience and innovative initiatives. With nearly 20 years as a licensed sales representative in a family-owned car business, Jeff provides unique insights into the automotive industry and understands dealers’ challenges and needs. His extensive experience enhances his ability to serve OMVIC stakeholders effectively. 

Role as Chief Consumer Protection Officer (CCPO)
In his current role, Jeff oversees OMVIC’s operational teams, including enforcement, inspections, registration, consumer support, and communications. His leadership ensures OMVIC’s operations are effective and responsive to the needs of OMVIC registered dealers, enhancing their ability to maintain professionalism and compliance.

Transparency in the complaints process
Jeff has been a strong advocate for transparency. Under his leadership, OMVIC has established more transparent procedures in the complaints process. This ensures fair treatment for dealers, allowing them the opportunity to present their perspective, enhancing trust and clarity for both dealers and consumers.  

Innovative support initiatives
Jeff has led the development of new metrics and initiatives to improve the inspection process, supporting dealers more effectively. He introduced an enhanced “Right Touch Regulation” approach, using a progressive compliance process that informs dealers of trends before taking enforcement action. Believing in an education-first approach, Jeff has provided dealers with better resources and information, reducing bureaucratic obstacles. These efforts enhance dealer professionalism and improve the overall consumer experience. 

Bridging consumer protection and dealer support
Jeff bridges consumer protection and dealer support by leveraging his extensive industry knowledge to integrate best practices from both areas. He continues to encourage dealers and salespersons to engage proactively with OMVIC staff for advice and to report unethical practices, emphasizing the importance of reporting bad actors to enhance industry professionalism.  

To support this effort, Jeff oversaw the OMVIC partnership that the enforcement team established with Toronto Crime Stoppers to combat illegal vehicle sales and activities in Ontario. The establishment of this partnership recognizes its significant impact on community safety and consumer protection. OMVIC’ vision for the partnership was clear: by providing the community with an anonymous crime reporting platform, it would empower individuals to identify and report illegal activities related to vehicle sales. Through the partnership, consumers can now anonymously complete an online tip form or call Toronto Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, directly contributing to police efforts in stopping those involved in these crimes. 

As CCPO, Jeff’s dedication and expertise are driving forces behind our evolving dealer support strategies. We look forward to sharing more updates on our initiatives and the ongoing improvements within OMVIC.