Number of positions available: 1

Status: Full-Time, Permanent

Closing Date: January 5 2025

OUR TEAM

As proud champions of our region we connect local and global communities creating exceptional experiences as the airport of choice. Contributing to a dynamic portfolio of assets, YYC’s Airport Planning function influences the structural efforts that set the foundation for air travel into our airport and by extension our region. Our team’s influence into shaping YYC’s strategic plan anchors future successes, which contribute to the overall growth.

We are more than just airplanes and pavement. Our purpose travels beyond our airport infrastructure into the communities we serve. We are about connections, stories, and life-defining adventures. We are committed to fostering an environment where our people are rewarded through meaningful work experiences.

The Calgary Airport Authority manages and operates YYC Calgary International Airport and YBW Springbank Airport and collaborates with the many partners who make up YYC - from airlines to government agencies and retail outlets. This is an exciting time to join our #YYCCrew and drive YYC forward as one of Canada's best airports!

WHAT YOU WILL DO

The General Manager, Planning Services is responsible for formulating and implementing broad-based and holistic airport planning initiatives in support of The Airport Authority’s legislated mandate, Strategic Plan and Corporate Objectives. The position is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Airport Planning department, ensuring aligned execution of the established business plans, goals and objectives and the performance of the function. The GM works closely with the Director and Vice-President (Chief Real Estate Officer) and peer senior leaders to collaborate, communicate and effectively achieve results. This role does not currently have direct reports but will evolve to lead a small team that executes the Planning function.

RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

• In collaboration with other business units and in alignment with the Corporate Strategy, is responsible for the development and ownership of the Airport Master Plans for both the Calgary International and Springbank Airports. Leads the preparation, creates and updates Long Term Plans in alignment with the approved Master Plans, exercising a vision of 10 to 20 years that anticipates organization future needs.
• Development, implementation, management and oversight of the long-term Air Traffic Movement Forecasts, (Passengers, Aircraft Movements, Air Cargo) in collaboration with other business units including Capacity Planning Team and Air Service Development.
• Development and management of short, medium, and long-term Airside/Airfield planning initiatives in collaboration with Airside Operations and the Capacity Planning Team, with a focus on improvements related to overall Airfield System efficiency. This includes runway, taxiway, apron, and de-icing systems.
• Development and management of short, medium, and long-term Air Terminal Building planning initiatives, in collaboration with the Terminal Operations and Commercial teams, focusing on improvements related to passenger terminal processors. This includes check-in, pre-board screening, boarding and dwell areas, CBSA, U.S. CBP, baggage system as well as overall passenger flow.
• Development and management of short, medium, and long-term Landside Planning initiatives, in conjunction with the Ground Transportation and Lands Teams, focusing on improvements related to roadway systems, parking, and transit connectivity – including future rail connectivity.
• Leading simulation and modelling initiatives related to Airfield and Terminal sub-systems in conjunction with the Airside, Terminal Operations and Capacity Management Teams.
• Collaborate with Land Development, Commercial and Retail Development, as well as the Commercial Marketing teams to ensure planning initiatives are harmonized and integrated with the Airport’s Non-Aeronautical revenue programs.
• Contribute to the development of organization strategic plans that are aligned with organizational objectives and own the implementation of these plans. Develop Planning function specific business plans, including programs and projects, which identify opportunities for growth and innovation within the department. Establish, monitor, achieve and cascade objectives and KPI’s for the Planning department, it’s functions and it’s team members (as applicable) within their scope of responsibility.
• Ensure operational management of the Airport Planning function through implementation of work plans, oversight of daily operations to ensure efficiency and effectiveness, establishment of departmental policies and procedures, and actioning of legal and regulatory requirements to ensure compliance.
• Provide financial oversight of the Airport Planning function through input to the development of the annual budget, and execution of all decisions in accordance with the established and approved department budget. Identify cost-saving opportunities through this process while still maintaining quality.
• Provide leadership to the Airport Planning function, as this function evolves and potentially acquires additional team members. This may include recruitment, training, setting performance goals, conducting regular evaluations, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment, and ultimately developing a high-performing team.
• Communicate and collaborate effectively with all stakeholders required, and all levels of the organization to achieve organization-wide objectives. Represent the Airport Planning function in all divisional and/or executive meetings, as well as The Authority externally at industry conferences, networking events, and meetings.
• In collaboration with IT and the Corporate/Airport Technologies teams, drive technological advancements related to overall airport system performance and optimization.

WHAT YOU BRING

• Post-Secondary education such as diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Airport Planning, Urban or Regional Planning, Architecture, Engineering, or related field.
• Hold a Professional Designation related to the field such as RPP / MRAIC / P.Eng.
• Minimum of 10 - 15 years experience in a planning role – preferably in an International or Commercial Airport Environment, Municipal Environment, or in the Consulting Field
• Minimum of 5 - 10 years leadership experience in a management role, overseeing multidisciplinary teams.
• Membership in the following industry organizations is desirable:
  • IAAE (International Association of Airport Executives) or
  • AAAE (American Association of Airport Executives)
  • CM (Certified Member) or AAE (Accredited Airport Executive)
• Proven track record of success in business planning, work planning, operational management and execution of strategic initiatives.

WHAT ELSE

• Operational management and execution/implementation of plans, programs, projects and team activities.
• Proficient leadership and team management skills.
• Strong strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Highly effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Financial acumen and budget management expertise.
• Ability to work under pressure and handle multiple priorities.
• Proven ability to forge strong relationships and work collaboratively with key internal and external stakeholders.
• Strong working knowledge of aviation industry, airport planning – including planning policy, procedures, and regulations - is required.
• Facilitation skills and experience in Change Management is desirable.

Our Values:

We prioritize genuine concern and compassion for everyone we engage with, from our team members to our partners and guests, always striving to help and support one another.

We actively seek diverse perspectives in our decision-making and collaboratively tackle challenges.

We work together with trust and transparency, supporting one another to achieve the collective goals of our organization.

We grow, evolve, and adapt with purpose, continually aligning our actions with our vision.

We embrace curiosity and boldly challenge the status quo, exploring new opportunities and taking thoughtful, responsible risks that drive purposeful innovation.

Are you looking for the journey of a lifetime? One that’s focused on creating effortless and memorable experiences for millions of guests and travelers each year. Click the apply button for your chance to learn how you can be a part of one of Alberta’s Top Employers.

The Calgary Airport Authority is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply including women, Indigenous people, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities, members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community, and others who may contribute to organizational diversification of ideas