Job Description
Victoria International Airport (Code: YYJ) was rated one of the top ten most-loved airports in the world by CNN Travel and is the 2012, 2014, and 2020 winner of ‘Best Regional Airport in North America’ by Airports Council International. Victoria Airport Authority (VAA) is the not-for-profit corporation that manages the safe and secure operations of the Victoria International Airport on behalf of the surrounding communities. Victoria International Airport is the 11th busiest airport in Canada with almost 2.0 million passengers per year (2019). VAA’s mission is to provide a safe, secure, sustainable, and efficient airport that creates prosperity for the region by connecting Greater Victoria with the world. With the retirement of their current President & CEO, the Board of Directors is seeking a credible and visionary leader ready to thrive in a career defining role.
VAA is an important institution, positioning Victoria and broader Vancouver Island as having significant impact on community economic development, while locally acting as an employer and investor in significant infrastructure. Recognizing this, the new CEO will need to build on existing success to ensure the continued growth and evolution of VAA. Relationship building will be key for the CEO to continue to foster indigenous partnerships that lead to new opportunities. Success is also measured by the CEO’s ability to deliver the goals set out in the Strategic Plan (2023-2027) and the Master Plan (2023-2042).
Rounding out the role is the day-to-day oversight of the operations and the execution of plans and initiatives for the Airport. The CEO reports to the Board of Directors and has the support of an Executive Leadership Team and staff complement totalling 56 (union and non-union).
The ideal candidate for this role is a highly successful, innovative leader with demonstrated experience leading an organization to execute its strategies, initiatives, and projects in a complex, multi-stakeholder, and customer centric environment. They must have experience working with and being accountable to a Board of Directors. They will bring patience and knowledge from operating in a highly regulated industry, understanding the challenges and key players in the transportation sector. They value strategic HR planning, understanding that the development of a healthy workplace culture and strategic HR practices are integral to organizational success. A proven track record in driving commercial opportunities, public facing experience, and building effective relationships with diverse community stakeholders is essential. Knowledge and demonstrated experience working toward reconciliation with Indigenous communities is desirable. A university degree in a relevant field and a minimum of ten years of recent, related executive experience in the airlines, aviation, and/or broader transportation sector rounds out the desired criteria.