Director, Airport Security

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 2,100 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.
• Eligibility to participate in our Group Health Benefits Program.
• 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 Head of Safety, Security and Emergency Services, the Director, Airport Security is accountable for advancing the organization’s security vision, strategy, and culture. This role ensures implementation of best-in-class airport-wide security programs, policies, and processes to mitigate operational risks and maintain regulatory compliance. A forward-thinking leader, the Director will incorporate emerging technologies and global best practices to enhance security and accelerate Toronto Pearson’s transformative journey.

The Director will be an inspirational leader with deep expertise in aviation security, capable of guiding the organization through complex operational environments and significant security incidents. This role builds strong relationships with law enforcement, airport agencies, and government partners to foster a culture of safety and security accountability across the airport community.

As a Director, Airport Security, you will:

• Shape and Champion Airport Security Strategy: Set the vision and strategic direction for security across Canada’s largest airport, ensuring a proactive, risk-based approach to prevention, deterrence, detection, and response. Drive alignment with regulatory requirements while positioning Toronto Pearson as an industry leader in security innovation.
• Provide Executive Oversight of Security Program Delivery: Lead the design and execution of comprehensive security programs across terminal, landside, airside, and perimeter environments. Oversee critical partnerships and contracts; including Peel Regional Police and security service providers while ensuring seamless integration of advanced technologies and infrastructure to enable secure, frictionless operations.
• Serve as the Designated Security Official: Act as the airport’s principal liaison with Transport Canada and other regulatory bodies, representing GTAA in high-stakes discussions and leading strategic responses to security events with authority and confidence.
• Drive Innovation and Regulatory Excellence: Anticipate emerging threats and global trends, embedding cutting-edge technologies and methodologies into security operations. Champion compliance and continuous improvement to support transformative initiatives such as the LIFT Development Program.
• Influence and Strengthen Strategic Partnerships: Build and sustain high-value relationships with government agencies, law enforcement, airlines, and industry peers. Leverage these partnerships to shape policy, align priorities, and advance collaborative solutions that enhance airport-wide security performance.
• Embed a Culture of Security and Accountability: Establish enterprise-wide visibility through robust metrics, reporting, and governance frameworks. Lead cultural change initiatives that reinforce security as a shared responsibility across all stakeholders.
• Inspire and Develop High-Performing Teams: Model GTAA Leadership Behaviours to attract, develop, and retain top talent. Empower teams through clarity of vision, inclusive collaboration, and decisive leadership, ensuring readiness to respond to complex challenges and deliver results with urgency and impact.

This is the role for you, if you have:

• 7+ years in security or airport operations with progressive leadership experience.
• 10+ years in airport security leadership roles within complex operational environments.
• Proven track record in aviation security, regulatory compliance, and technology implementation.
• Strategic planning and crisis leadership.
• Strong stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.
• Expertise in security governance, risk assessment, and quality assurance.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Knowledge of Transport Canada regulations and global security best practices.
• Post-secondary degree in Airport Operations, Business Management, or Security preferred.
• Ability to obtain and retain Transportation Security Clearance.

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