Regional General Manager

About WestJet

Founded in 1996, WestJet has become one of Canada's most respected airline companies, continually striving to enhance the lives of its guests and employees. Since integrating Sunwing Airlines in 2025, WestJet supports close to 15,000 employees and operates nearly 200 aircraft, connecting over 100 destinations globally. The company prioritizes safety, inclusivity, and delivering affordable air and vacation travel to Canadians.

Position Overview

The Regional General Manager will provide strategic leadership for airport operations across their designated Canadian region. They will oversee contracted service partners to ensure safe, high-quality service that aligns with WestJet’s standards and regulatory requirements. Reporting to the Vice President of Airports, this role involves managing Regional Managers and working collaboratively with stakeholders such as airport authorities, government agencies, and service providers to optimize guest experience, operational efficiency, and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Promote a "Safety Above All" culture by monitoring safety objectives and addressing operational risks with service partners.
• Lead and develop a team of Regional Managers focused on operational excellence, guest satisfaction, employee engagement, and financial performance.
• Oversee consistent application of WestJet’s operational and guest service standards region-wide.
• Manage regional performance by meeting objectives related to operations, guest experience, and finances through action plans and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Conduct governance activities, including audits and operational reviews, to ensure compliance and identify corrective measures.
• Analyze operational and safety data for trends to inform resource allocation and risk mitigation.
• Act as the main escalation contact for Regional Managers regarding operational, guest service, commercial, safety, and irregular operation matters.
• Collaborate with Strategic Procurement to develop and maintain cost-effective, safe, and high-performing service partner relationships.
• Build executive-level relationships with airport authorities, bargaining agents, government agencies, and partner leadership.
• Lead planning for resource allocation to accommodate seasonal demands, network expansions, transitions, and other strategic changes.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement using data-driven initiatives to enhance service, employee experience, and financial outcomes.
• Participate in the Airports Leadership Team to set departmental priorities and execute strategic objectives.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 3 years experience in airports leadership roles.
• Demonstrated business leadership managing complex internal and external relationships.
• Strong business acumen including budget planning and execution.
• Ability to handle multitasking and shifting priorities effectively.
• Comfortable presenting reports and materials to senior leadership levels.
• Post-secondary education; business-related studies preferred.
• Proficient in managing multiple leaders and locations concurrently.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Project, Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Willingness and ability to travel extensively and work away from home for long durations.
• Project management expertise is advantageous.
• Familiarity with international regulations (e.g., TSA, Civil Aviation, UK High Commission) is a plus.
• Proven success influencing leadership teams and managing service partners.
• Experience with IATA Standard Ground Handling Agreement (SGHA) is beneficial.

Benefits

• Collaborative and enjoyable workplace culture.
• Travel privileges for employees and their families starting from the first day.
• Flexible savings and benefits programs tailored to individual needs.

Additional Information

This position is eligible for remote work within Canada under WestJet’s mobile workforce program. WestJet maintains a strong commitment to safety and requires roles designated as Safety-Sensitive to pass a pre-employment alcohol and drug test. The company fosters diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply, offering accommodations throughout the hiring process.

Applicants should expect a competitive recruitment process with communications provided throughout. If the role is not the right fit, candidates are invited to explore other opportunities at WestJet.