John Carmichael
John Carmichael had a long and distinguished career in the automotive industry and his work has now been recognized with an appointment to the Order of Ontario.
Carmichael received word recently when the appointees, including hockey personality Don Cherry, were publicly announced. Carmichael told Canadian auto dealer he was “absolutely thrilled” by the appointment, the highest civilian honour in Ontario.
“It’s one of those things you don’t plan for and there’s nothing you can do to impact it,” said Carmichael. “You do what you do every day in the hope you’re making a contribution, whether in your business or your community, and when people recognize you with something like that it’s a very rewarding honour. When it happens, it’s something that feels very, very nice.”
“We all do what we do, and there are people throughout the automotive industry and communities that do the very same thing and are very thankful when the recognition is bestowed upon them.”
He said several people provided letters of recommendation and support but declined to name them.
Last year, he was honoured with the King Charles III Coronation Medal, awarded to individuals who have made a significant contribution to a province, territory or community in Canada. He also received the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Medal in 2013 while serving as a Conservative MP from 2011 to 2015.
Carmichael’s automotive career included owning City Pontiac Cadillac Ltd., which he purchased from his father’s estate in 1992 and operated until he was elected to Parliament. He joined the Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council as chief executive officer in 2017, became interim registrar in 2018, and was appointed CEO and registrar in 2020 before retiring in 2022. He later joined his son, Michael, to whom he had sold City Pontiac Cadillac Ltd. at UpAuto as non-executive chair.
He said being included alongside Cherry was the “highlight” of the appointment, agreeing it’s not every day you get to be included with the former coach-turned-TV personality.
“No kidding, isn’t that cool?” Carmichael said. “I’m looking forward to meeting Mr. Cherry. I think he’s terrific.”
The Motor Vehicle Retailers of Ontario issued a statement to Canadian auto dealer saying it is “incredibly proud that one of our own has been appointed to the Order of Ontario. When John hears the call to serve, he answers. On top of running a successful new car dealership, he consistently stepped forward to champion the auto retail industry by taking on leadership roles, including president of the Toronto Dealers Association (the precursor to MVRO), chair of the Canadian Automobile Dealers Association, and president of the Canadian International AutoShow. John is a class act.”
“He is generous with his time, steady in his leadership, and ready to lend a helping hand. The MVRO extends our heartfelt thanks for his decades of service as an industry leader. John’s appointment is richly deserved.”
Michael Carmichael wrote on LinkedIn that his father’s commitment to leadership, service and community has helped shape not only businesses and organizations, but also the lives of many across Ontario and beyond.
“This recognition is a testament to a lifetime of dedication, integrity and meaningful contribution,” said Michael. “This is a timely nod after meeting so many folks at the AutoShow who shared with me their stories of appreciation for my father and the integral role he has played in their career successes.”
Many people commented on Michael’s post, describing Carmichael as a legend and a leader.
Domenic Ismaele, CEO and managing partner at Tire Storage Solutions, said: “This honour could not have been given to a more deserving person. John has always been a great leader in both his business and public life endeavours. A great honour for an incredible man.”
John said he was moved by the remarks.
“That was wonderful,” he said. “It gives you goosebumps when people say such nice things. It just makes your heart feel good.”
