Department Head

Description:

The Greater Toronto Airports Authority (GTAA) is seeking a highly experienced and visionary professional to serve as the Head of Safety, Security and Emergency Services. This role is pivotal in ensuring the safety, security, and resilience of Canada’s largest airport, Toronto Pearson International. The successful candidate will lead an integrated strategy encompassing aviation security, public and corporate safety, Safety Management Systems (SMS), fire and emergency services, and emergency preparedness.

The position involves building and sustaining a strong safety culture, driving enterprise-wide risk management, ensuring compliance with Transport Canada regulations, and embedding real-time analytics into decision-making. A core part of the role includes leading crisis management capability, overseeing complex operations, and implementing transformation initiatives to modernize safety and security frameworks.

The Head will also be accountable for mentoring and coaching teams, fostering collaboration across a matrix organization, and ensuring alignment with large-scale capital construction projects. The candidate must be well-networked with deep knowledge of global aviation safety and security trends, and possess proven expertise in ARFF (Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting), SMS implementation, and enterprise crisis coordination.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s preferred in Aviation Safety, Business, Engineering, or Risk Management).

• Minimum 10+ years of leadership experience in airport operations, safety, or security, preferably in large-scale infrastructure environments.

• At least 15 years of people management experience with a track record of developing high-performing teams.

• Strong expertise in developing, executing, and managing safety/security programs in large organizations.

• Familiarity with Occupational Health and Safety programs, SMS frameworks, and Transport Canada regulations.

• Ability to obtain and retain a Transportation Security Clearance.

• Exceptional communication, strategic planning, change management, and crisis leadership skills.