Associate Director, Deicing Operations

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?

As the Associate Director, Deicing Operations, you will be instrumental in the safe, effective, and efficient execution of the Ground Deicing Operations Program. This is a high-impact, influential role where you will drive operational excellence, foster collaboration with internal and external partners, and lead innovation to maintain world-class service standards for one of the busiest airports in North America. This pivotal leadership role offers the opportunity to directly shape the resilience and efficiency of our airport’s winter operations. You will be expected to review business processes, implement technological enhancements, and maintain stringent compliance standards across a dynamic and high-stakes operational environment. You will be a key leader in ensuring seamless service delivery as our business unit continues to grow and evolve.

As Associate Director, Deicing Operations, you will:

• Execute and deliver the comprehensive GTAA Ground Deicing Program (GDOM) by leading the integration, coordination, management, supervision, and quality assurance of all operations.
• Develop and implement strategic plans to continuously improve safety protocols, enhance operational efficiencies, and deliver world-class aircraft deicing services.
• Lead change management initiatives that address the growth demands and future evolution of the business unit.
• Identify, prioritize, and support the development and assessment of innovative initiatives and processes to elevate service delivery standards.
• Account for and ensure full compliance with Transport Canada Regulations and all other local, provincial, and federal regulations governing aircraft deicing operations.
• Cultivate positive, strategic relationships with key internal and external stakeholders to drive commitment and achieve seamless departmental collaboration.
• Collaborate and cooperate with Vendors, Internal Business Units (Aviation Services, IT, Finance, etc.), and External Stakeholders (Transport Canada, Nav Canada, Airlines, etc.) to optimize operational outcomes.
• Deliver the business unit’s Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM) requirements for successful implementation and continuously monitor the program to identify areas for improvement.
• Account for the cost effectiveness of the business unit by proactively reviewing and auditing expenditures.
• Assess budget requirements and business plans to determine optimal outcomes for success.
• Manage the operating unit budget, forecasting monthly and annual requirements and detailing variances specific to labour, goods & services expenses.
• Oversee and execute proactive vendor management to ensure strict adherence to established Service Level Agreements (SLAs).
• Systematically leverage operational data and performance insights to inform real-time and strategic decision-making, drive continuous service improvement, and ensure robust contractual accountability and compliance across all deicing activities.
• Forecast Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) needs to ensure long-term support for operations.
• Mentor and coach Managers and Shift Managers within the Deicing Operations unit to foster a high-performing, safe, and collaborative culture.

This is the role for you, if you have:

• Minimum 8 years of experience in an airport operational environment or similar, with demonstrated experience serving a large and complex customer base.
• Minimum 5 years of leadership experience with people management, preferably within a matrix organization and experience in a unionized environment.
• Exceptional skills in strategic planning, business process analysis, and driving continuous improvement initiatives.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills to manage complex internal and external stakeholder relationships.
• Proven ability to establish and maintain strong relationships internally and externally with stakeholders.
• Proven experience in a demanding, safety-critical, 24/7 operational environment, preferably within the airport, airline, or logistics industries.
• Demonstrated experience in a senior leadership or management role, including direct experience in managing a team of managers or supervisors.
• In-depth knowledge of Ground Deicing Operations, procedures, and associated regulatory frameworks.
• A valid Ontario Driver’s License.
• 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.