Job Description

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.

What's in it for you?

• An opportunity to grow, develop, and thrive within a dynamic, and fast-growing company alongside thoughtful and passionate individuals dedicated to their work and community.
• 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 can you expect from this position?

Reporting to the Director Airside Ground Operations, the Associate Director, Airside Ground Operations Strategy and Programs, you will provide strategic leadership for the planning, governance, and long‑term performance of Ground Operations at Toronto Pearson. This is a high‑impact leadership role responsible for shaping and overseeing ground handling service delivery models, airside safety programs, and future‑focused operational strategies that enable safe, efficient, and resilient airport operations.

This role plays a critical part in driving operational excellence across airside operations by strengthening service level performance, modernizing programs and technologies, and embedding sustainability and innovation into long‑term planning. You will collaborate extensively with internal teams, regulators, service providers, and industry partners to ensure alignment with enterprise objectives and the evolving needs of Canada’s busiest airport.

As Associate Director, Airside Ground Operations Strategy and Programs, you will:

• 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.

This is the role for you, if you have:

• 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.

The GTAA is committed to Employment Equity and maintaining a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive.

This position is exempt from Ontario's 2026 pay transparency requirements under Regulation 476/24.