Regional Manager, Airport Operations Canada

Job Summary

The Regional Manager, Airport Operations Canada at Porter Airlines is a high-level leadership role responsible for the operational integrity of the Porter network across multiple Canadian stations. Based out of Mississauga (YYZ/YTZ area), you will act as the “Operational Architect,” overseeing safety, aircraft turn performance, and the passenger experience. This role requires the “wit” to manage complex third-party contracts and the “grit” to lead through irregular operations (IROPS) during peak travel hours and across various jurisdictions.

Job Details

• Employer: Porter Airlines Inc.

• Location: Mississauga, ON (with 50% travel across the Canadian network).

• Position Type: Full-time, Management Leadership.

• Industry Standing: Official 4 Star Airline® known for “refined” economy travel.

• Fleet Focus: Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400.

• Schedule: High-flexibility required; includes 7-day leadership rotations and engagement during peak/irregular hours.

Core Responsibilities

• Third-Party Oversight: Manage and audit contract ground handlers to ensure they meet Porter’s strict standards for safety, grooming, and “On-Time Performance.”

• Safety Management (SMS): Actively participate in the Safety Management System, identifying hazards and ensuring ground service equipment (GSE) is maintained to regulatory standards.

• Operational Efficiency: Identify and eliminate barriers causing “station-controllable” delays; work cross-functionally to mitigate system-wide disruptions.

• Station Startups: Lead the “Startup Team” to establish and launch new stations as Porter expands its coast-to-coast domestic and international network.

• Financial Stewardship: Meet defined financial performance targets and establish business cases for operational investments.

• Stakeholder Diplomacy: Represent Porter’s interests in meetings with Airport Authorities and protect the brand’s “Refined Service” image.

• Leadership Escalation: Serve as a point of escalation to resolve operational crises, containing and addressing issues before they impact the broader system.

Candidate Profile

• Experience: 7 to 10 years of relevant aviation industry experience.

• Education: A post-secondary degree in business or aviation is an asset.

• Negotiation Wit: Proven experience in contract negotiations and managing third-party service-level agreements (SLAs).

• Leadership Grit: Demonstrated ability to prioritize resources during high-stress “Irregular Operations” and navigate conflicting stakeholder interests.

• Mobility: Must be able to travel 50% of the time and maintain a Transport Canada Security Clearance.

• Competencies: Strong focus on “Concern for Safety,” “Inspiring Others,” and “Results Focus.”

Technical Insights: The Airport Ecosystem

As a Regional Manager, you oversee the delicate balance between the “Above-Wing” and “Below-Wing” operations.

• The Aircraft Turnaround: You are responsible for the “Critical Path”—the sequence of events from chocks-on to chocks-off (fueling, catering, cleaning, and baggage).

• Ground Service Equipment (GSE): Ensuring handlers have reliable tugs, belt loaders, and de-icing units is vital for winter operations in Canada.

• Irregular Operations (IROPS): You must lead the strategy when weather or mechanical issues ground the fleet, balancing passenger care with operational recovery.

Job Description

Do you believe that an airline’s reputation is won or lost on the tarmac and at the departure gate? Porter Airlines is seeking a Regional Manager, Airport Operations to oversee our Canadian network. We aren’t just moving passengers; we are providing “Hospitality with Style and Charm.” If you have the “grit” to manage a station startup in a new territory and the “wit” to hold contract partners to the highest global standards, you belong in our leadership circle.

In this role, you are a “Network Guardian.” You understand that a delay in Moncton can affect a departure in Vancouver. Your goal is to provide “Excellence in Execution,” ensuring that our 4-star service is consistent whether a passenger is checking in or boarding. We look for “Integrity-first” leaders who are proactive, persistent, and ready to champion change as Porter grows into a North American powerhouse.

Joining Porter means joining a team that values innovation and genuine care. We offer a sophisticated work environment, the chance to influence a rapidly expanding network, and a culture that treats every team member with respect. If you are an aviation professional with a commitment to “Safety and Operational Reliability,” we invite you to apply and help us elevate the experience of economy air travel.