July 14th, 2025
Commissionaires is proud to announce the 2025 National Commissionaire of the Year and National Supervisor of the Year.
This year’s recipients have demonstrated their dedication and professionalism, setting the standard in their respective roles. Join us in congratulating Commissionaire Karamoko Diaby as Commissionaire of the Year and Major (Ret’d) Joseph Tobin as the Supervisor of the Year.
Commissionaire (Cmre) Karamoko Diaby: Commissionaire of the Year (COTY)
Commissionaires National Board Chair, Gord Winkel (left), presenting Cmre Karamoko Diaby (middle) — accompanied by his wife, Maria (right) — with the Commissionaire of the Year silver tray and award cheque.
Cmre Karamoko Diaby, a member of the Ottawa Division since 2022, has set the standard for professionalism and dependability at Place du Portage in Gatineau, QC. Known for his strong work ethic, he has earned the respect and trust of colleagues, supervisors, and clients alike. He regularly arrives for his shift well ahead of schedule, often nearly an hour early, and maintains a near-perfect attendance record that sets a strong example for his peers.
Cmre Diaby was nominated for this award in recognition of his consistent contributions, personal character, and commitment to duty. That dedication was particularly evident in 2024, when he helped save the life of a colleague who suffered a heart attack. Since then, he has continued to go above and beyond, supporting numerous high-level visits and regular staffing shortage coverage. His reliability has made such an impact that supervisors, clients and contractors regularly request him by name.
Originally from Guinea (West Africa), Cmre Diaby began his life of service at age 18 with the Guinean military. He later pursued engineering studies in Mexico, joining earthquake rescue efforts in 1990. After immigrating to Canada in 1996, he continued to serve his community by assisting during the 1998 Montreal ice storm. He remains an active volunteer in Ontario and Quebec, supporting neighbours in need and contributing to education and health initiatives.
Though his record speaks volumes, Cmre Diaby is known for his humility and quiet leadership. He mentors new commissionaires and leads by example. One supervisor described him as “an institution in his own right,” a testament to the deep and lasting impact he has made in his workplace and community.
We are proud to honour Cmre Diaby as the 2025 National Commissionaire of the Year.
Major (Ret’d) Joseph (Joe) Tobin: Supervisor of the Year (SOTY)
Commissionaires National Board Chair, Gord Winkel (left), presenting Maj (Ret’d) Joe Tobin (right) with the Supervisor of the Year silver tray and award cheque.
A 42-year veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces and member of Commissionaires Nova Scotia (CNS) since 2016, Maj (Ret’d) Tobin is the definition of leadership and a life in service. Over the years, he has worked at sites where he has consistently earned praise for his leadership style and his commitment to providing quality service.
In 2022, Maj (Ret’d) Tobin stepped into the role of Acting Site-Supervisor at one of the busiest sites within CNS; Marine Atlantic Inc. in North Sydney, Cape Breton. His decades of experience made him the clear choice. He leads with fairness and empathy, building strong relationships with both his team and clients.
Maj (Ret’d) Tobin’s leadership was first formally recognized in March 2024 with a CEO Commendation from CNS for his ability to lead his team. He has improved morale, reinforced performance standards, and established a culture of accountability and safety at his worksite, which requires rigorous operational standards. In 2023, he played a pivotal role in rejuvenating the CNS Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee at Marine Atlantic.
Maj (Ret’d) Tobin’s commitment doesn’t stop when the shift ends. During a historic snowstorm in February 2024, he used his own vehicle to transport colleagues to work, ensuring operational continuity, supporting his team in the process.
Outside of work, Maj (Ret’d) Tobin’s commitment to community service and volunteerism is second to none. Since 1997, he has been an active member of the Knights of Columbus, serving six councils and contributing to causes including Habitat for Humanity and Special Olympics. In addition, he’s been involved in several organizations within his community, contributing to initiatives supporting veterans, youth programs, local charities, and social development projects. His volunteerism has been recognized with the Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee Medal and Nova Scotia’s Democracy 250 Medal.
We proudly recognize Maj (Ret’d) Tobin as the 2025 National Supervisor of the Year. His leadership and commitment to service continues to inspire us all.