Chief Executive Officer

Overview

The Organization: Southport Aerospace Centre Inc. (Southport) is a not-for-profit, non-share corporation that manages the assets of the former Canadian Forces Base in Portage la Prairie, originally established as a training base for military pilots. As a property management and development company, Southport operates a Transport Canada-certified airport in support of military flying training and has diversified its tenant base to include health administration, education and training, manufacturing, addictions counselling, childcare, agriculture, support services for the military flight contract and recreational facilities. With the recent announcement of the major expansion of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) Future Aircrew Training Program (FAcT), this is a pivotal opportunity to lead Southport during a period of significant investment in support of CAF’s air fleets.

The Opportunity: Due to an upcoming retirement, Southport is seeking a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to continue the successful trajectory of development and expansion, enabling a prosperous future and making a significant impact on the surrounding economy. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the CEO is responsible for the overall leadership of Southport. This is a public-facing and visible role that will require a high degree of stakeholder engagement, strategic leadership, strong management skills, and a seasoned communicator. Southport is seeking a skilled leader who leads by example, builds relationships, and has an entrepreneurial spirit that fits with the organization’s vision of growth, excellence and fostering innovation.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the affairs of Southport in collaboration with the board and senior management team.
• Develop business strategies/plans approved by the board to drive improvements and operational efficiency.
• Establish and maintain a proactive approach to organizational change and development.
• Act as a liaison, communicating effectively and keeping board directors informed on progress and significant issues.
• Market the assets and opportunities at Southport to achieve optimal economic benefit and employment, and ensure alignment consistent with Southport’s mission, vision, and values.
• Act as a spokesperson for the organization, while respecting the ongoing relationship with the community of mutual support and alignment of external communications and enhancing the region’s public profile.
• Foster a culture that promotes ethical practices, customer focus, and service, and encourages individual integrity.
• Provide guidance and leadership to executive leaders and stakeholders on matters relating to operations.
• Ensure compliance with applicable provincial and federal regulations, including legal and business ethics affecting operations, the Canadian Aviation Regulation, and other related rules concerning aviation and airports.

Selection Criteria

• Degree in business, administration, related field, or equivalent experience – post-graduate/executive studies preferred.
• A career of progressively senior responsibilities, including 5+ years working as a senior executive leader and/or CEO.
• Experience managing multi-million-dollar budgets and implementing mission, vision and values.
• Direct experience in strategic planning, business development, budget-planning, and project management, involving and delivering major transformation and growth.
• Strong understanding of corporate finance and performance management principles.
• Familiarity with core business functions such as marketing, PR, sales, risk management, etc.
• In-depth knowledge of corporate governance and general management best practices.
• Previous experience working in privately managed airports, and/or public/private partnerships considered an asset.
• Ability to motivate others to achieve goals and objectives in a time-sensitive environment.
• Resourceful with the ability to manage multiple initiatives and strong project management and prioritization skills.
• Superior oral and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate in a clear and concise manner.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate with cross-functional business partners to achieve results.
• Exceptional work ethic, professional integrity, and emotional intelligence.

Application

To apply to this opportunity, please send an updated resume and cover letter in confidence to

Jen Sklar quoting project #24130 to jen@harrisleadership.com