Associate Director, Airside Ground Operations Strategy & Programs

Greater Toronto Airports Authority • Toronto, ON

19d • Hybrid

About The Position

Toronto Pearson is transforming. Now’s the time for your career to fly. The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) is a unique and dynamic place to work, with a bold plan to make Toronto Pearson, Canada’s leading global hub airport, a global leader in airport performance, customer care and sustainability. Together with our partners, approximately 1,900 GTAA employees are working to create a next-generation airport by innovating in all we do and striving for the most uplifting, safe and efficient experience for our passengers – all while championing the prosperity of our people, the community we call home, and our aviation partners. Join us on our journey together, as we put the joy back into travel and make Toronto Pearson the chosen place to fly and work.

Requirements

• 10 years of experience in an airport or similarly complex operational environment serving a large customer base.
• 10 years of people leadership experience, including managing managers in a unionized and matrixed organization.
• Demonstrated success in strategic planning, performance management, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to analyze complex operational, financial, and safety data and translate insights into action.
• Proven ability to build strong relationships and influence outcomes across multiple internal and external stakeholder groups.
• Experience operating in a highly regulated, safety-critical, 24/7 environment.
• A valid Ontario Driver’s License.
• Ability to obtain and retain a D/A AVOP.
• Post-Secondary degree or a combination of education and relevant experience.
• Ability to obtain and retain a Transportation Security Clearance.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive Ground Handling Strategy that supports safe, efficient, and resilient airside operations.
• Provide senior oversight of ground handling service provider performance, ensuring Service Level Standards, KPIs, and contractual requirements are consistently met.
• Drive continuous improvement by analyzing operational performance data, identifying systemic risks and opportunities, and implementing corrective actions.
• Champion the governance, delivery, and modernization of the Airside Vehicle Operators Permit (AVOP) Program to strengthen safety culture and regulatory compliance.
• Lead cross-functional future planning initiatives, including seasonal readiness, peak operations planning, and operational resiliency programs.
• Support the integration of operational requirements into terminal development, capacity, and contingency planning initiatives.
• Advance sustainability and greenhouse gas reduction initiatives within ground operations through innovative service and equipment solutions.
• Provide strategic leadership and mentorship to managers and unionized employees, fostering a high-performing, inclusive, and accountable culture.
• Ensure strong safety governance through oversight of standards, procedures, investigations, and Safety Management System (SMS) processes.
• Provide financial leadership, including budget oversight, workforce planning, and capital forecasting to support long-term operational performance.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits, including a flexible retirement program with employer matching, along with voluntary savings options (RRSP, TFSA, and Non-Registered Savings Plans).
• A flexible hybrid work environment, continuous internal and external learning opportunities, and a meaningful reward and recognition program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: Associate degree