Director, Airside Operations

Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is Vancouver Island’s gateway to the world, connecting more than 1.9 million passengers annually to key domestic and seasonal international destinations. Operated by the Victoria Airport Authority (VAA), a not-for-profit, non-share capital organization, YYJ plays a vital role in regional connectivity and economic growth. VAA operates from the homeland of the WSÁNEĆ people whose historical relationship to the land continues to this day.

YYJ has been recognized as one of BC’s Top Employers annually since 2020. It has also received the Airports Council International award for Best Regional Airport in North America in 2012, 2014, 2020 and 2024. Since April 1, 1997, the Victoria Airport Authority has managed and operated YYJ on behalf of the surrounding communities, delivering a safe, secure, sustainable, and efficient airport experience.

Job Overview

Reporting to the Vice President, Operations, the Director, Airside Operations (Director) leads, directs, and oversees the performance of Victoria Airport Authority's (VAA) airside operations, systems and services. The Director is accountable for the safe, efficient and continuous operation of these critical functions, including airside and groundside maintenance, winter operations and compliance with applicable regulatory performance requirements. As a key member of VAA’s management team, the Director translates corporate priorities into multi-year business and operational plans, policies, procedures and performance standards.

The role provides strategic advice to the Executive, contributes to reporting to the Board, and leads operational and capital initiatives that strengthen organizational resilience, improve performance and prepare the airport for future requirements. The Director provides senior leadership to multidisciplinary teams in unionized and excluded environments. They are accountable for workforce capability, succession readiness, performance management and the development of a positive, high-performing culture aligned with VAA’s values.

Requirements

• Strong knowledge of Canadian Aviation Regulations, ICAO Standards, Safety Management Systems, operational risk, business continuity and airport infrastructure.
• Demonstrated success leading multidisciplinary teams, ideally in a unionized environment, managing operational and capital budgets, overseeing contractors and vendors, and delivering complex projects and programs.
• A confident communicator and collaborative leader who builds trusted relationships with employees, regulators, aviation partners, service providers, local governments, Indigenous leaders and other interest holders.
• Strategic and forward-looking while remaining connected to day-to-day operations, recognized for sound judgment, accountability and the ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining a strong focus on safety, service and operational excellence.