YVR is a place of connection, bringing together people, places and cargo while ensuring a safe and efficient experience for everyone.  Air Service Development is an integral part of our broader Business Development team, with a focus on driving airline growth that supports our purpose through connecting our community to the world, capitalizing on market demand, driving economic benefits for our region and ensuring we effectively utilize our facilities.

Position overview

As a Senior Air Service Development Specialist, you will play a pivotal role in YVR’s air service development and international engagement initiatives to expand global connectivity, strengthen economic growth, and enhance YVR’s reputation as a premier aviation hub. You will make significant contributions to securing new routes and airline partnerships, shaping market strategies, and fostering high-value relationships with global stakeholders, governments, and industry partners.  

Key responsibilities include:  

• Collaborate to develop strategies to attract new airlines and secure new routes by analyzing market intelligence and global tourism trends
• Represent YVR at major aviation forums to build relationships with current and prospective airline partners and advance air service growth
• Manage airline data compliance by coordinating with delinquent carriers to ensure accurate passenger and cargo reporting
• Oversee and improve the onboarding process for new airlines, identifying and mitigating operational risks to ensure seamless transition from development to inaugural operations
• Oversee official visits from international airports and airlines, and design and execute YVR’s engagement strategies in international markets
• Provide internal training on airline industry fundamentals and cultural sensitivity while advising on culturally appropriate communications for diverse markets

Key qualifications include:

• At least five years of progressive experience in client relations management, customer service, and/or business improvement, supplemented by a bachelors’ degree with a focus on business or communication preferred; or an equivalent combination of training and experience 
• Demonstrated knowledge of:
  • Cultural nuances and appropriate protocols in dealing with international clients
  • At least one non-English language; proficiency in listening, reading, and writing an Asian language is an asset
  • The airport industry, as well as knowledge of airport procedures, programs, and initiatives at YVR
  • Business partners in the airport community, especially respective airlines’ passenger profile, route challenges, and market segmentation
• Proven relationship skills including the ability to organize and facilitate effective communication between multiple stakeholders
• Demonstrated ability to be resourceful, multitask and prioritize with limited information, react and adapt to changing situations, and make sound decisions
• Experience in negotiation, expectation management, and facilitation with diplomacy
• High level of professional written and oral communication skills, including public speaking

Although not required, French language skills are an asset as we are committed to providing bilingual services to our visitors and passengers. Candidates who do not speak French are still strongly encouraged to apply.

This position is open to Vancouver Airport Authority employees only. Previous job performance will be taken into consideration for all internal candidates that apply for this position.