Ernest Wheeler has over 25 years of experience in consumer finance law, regulatory compliance, and strategic business operations. As Vice President, Senior Counsel, and manager at TD Auto Finance, a division of TD Bank, he oversees legal and regulatory initiatives, partners with business lines to implement solutions, and works to drive new initiatives. He also supports regulatory responses, funding matters, new product launches, contract reviews, and legislative tracking, ensuring the bank remains ahead of changing requirements. Leveraging a deep understanding of automotive finance, Ernest provides legal guidance across funding, loan servicing, contract itemization, e-contracts, fair banking, retail credit, ancillary products, and collection matters. He also collaborates with dealer relationship managers to manage change and streamline communication with dealer partners.
Before joining TD Auto Finance, Ernest developed a strong foundation in commercial real estate, banking, and financial services law through a variety of roles, including:
- Commercial Escrow Officer, First American Title Company: Oversaw multi-million-dollar real estate transactions and managed nationwide escrow services.
- Attorney, Bodman PLC: Specialized in commercial lending, financial services, and real estate law.
- Real Estate and Commercial Banking Paralegal, Bodman PLC: Provided transactional and regulatory compliance support to attorneys on complex secured commercial lending transactions nationwide.
- Senior Acquisition Specialist, City of Detroit Planning and Development Department: Led negotiations and acquisitions for numerous properties, including the iconic Lindell A.C. Sports Bar in downtown Detroit, facilitating the $13 million Rosa Parks Transit Center project.
- Property Tax Foreclosure Paralegal, City of Detroit Law Department: Assisted with court pleadings, taxpayer negotiations, and in-court proceedings.
Alongside his professional responsibilities, Ernest devotes substantial time to mentorship. He guides colleagues at TD Bank, assists law students preparing for the Michigan bar exam, and helps young professionals expand their financial literacy and explore real estate investing.
Certifications & Affiliations
- Active member of the American Financial Services Association (AFSA) Law Committee, contributing to industry policy discussions and influencing regulatory changes at both the state and federal levels
- Real estate investor in Michigan and Florida for over 15 years, focusing on both short and long-term property leases
- Certified Auto Finance Compliance Professional through the National Auto Finance Association
Education
- Juris Doctor (2012), University of Detroit Mercy School of Law
- Bachelor of Arts in Legal Administration, magna cum laude (2003), University of Detroit Mercy
- Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies (2000), University of Detroit Mercy
