Ritter reaction of diols or triols with acetonitrile gave access to oxazolines in good yields and substrate scope. BF3∙Et2O was the Lewis acid of choice and the cyclization took place even with TBS protected alcohols. The Ritter reaction was promoted by carbocation stabilization from the Co2(CO)6 complex formed. A novel method with DDQ was developed for the cleavage of the Co-complex, giving higher yields compared to commonly used reagents. NMO was the reagent of choice for the cleavage of the Co-complex in substrates derived from triols. Finally selected oxazolines were transformed to corresponding glycinols in mild conditions.