OEB Board of Directors Announces new Chief Commissioner

After a thorough and competitive recruitment process, the OEB Board of Directors is pleased to announce the appointment of Damien A. Côté, to the role of Chief Commissioner.

Damien brings a wealth of expertise and experience to this role, including three years as a Board Member of the (former) National Energy Board, followed by three years as the inaugural Lead Commissioner at the Canada Energy Regulator (CER). Prior to the CER, he was the Executive Director of the Nunavut Water Board in Gjoa Haven (Nunavut), and as Chief Operating Officer of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation in Inuvik (Northwest Territories). He also served as a Member of the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada. Damien holds a Juris Doctor and a Licentiate of Laws from the University of Ottawa, a Master of Arts (Economics) from the University of Toronto, as well as a Bachelor of Engineering (Environmental) and a Bachelor of Arts (Economics) from Carleton University. 

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I am pleased to welcome Damien to the OEB,” said Mark E. White, Chair. “Damien’s wealth of expertise and experience will help us ensure the independence, transparency and effectiveness of the OEB’s adjudication process, in the service of those we regulate and the people of Ontario.”

Damien expressed his enthusiasm for the work ahead: “I am very excited to be joining the OEB team. This organization has a reputation for regulatory excellence across the country. I am looking forward to working with fellow Commissioners to maintain that good standing.”

Mark also thanked Lynne Anderson for her 15 years of service with the OEB, including the last five as chief commissioner: “Lynne’s work was critical in modernizing the OEB, particularly her focus on increasing effectiveness and efficiency of our adjudicative processes. I wish her all the best in her retirement.”

Damien’s appointment is effective April 1, 2025. Damien and Lynne will be working closely together in the coming days to facilitate a smooth transition. 

Questions concerning this media release should be directed to Ryan Zade, Director, Public Affairs, at ryan.zade@oeb.ca or (416) 440-7648.