Director, Data Analytics & Emerging Technology

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?

The Director of Data Analytics & Emerging Technology is a senior leadership position crucial to the GTAA’s Data & Analytics (D&A) program, which is a key component of the Long-term Investments in Facilities and Terminals (LIFT) enterprise transformation and the GTAA Digital Master Plan. This role focuses on leveraging data, analytics, and AI to generate business value, foster a data-driven culture, and ensure effective data governance. The Director will also identify and assess emerging airport technologies, establish strategic partnerships with innovators, and scout for high-potential solution providers to prepare GTAA for future digital advancements. This hybrid role combines strategic oversight, R&D leadership, and strategic tech partnerships, reporting directly to the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and overseeing the Data & Analytics and Emerging Technology teams. The role manages an annual operating budget of approximately $10 million, with anticipated growth.

Who are we looking for?

We are seeking a visionary leader who will define and champion the enterprise data & analytics (D&A) strategy, encompassing its vision, drivers, and desired outcomes. This individual will lead the D&A Centre of Excellence (COE) team, responsible for central data platforms, governance, standards, and quality frameworks, while simultaneously fostering a data-driven cultural transformation and building internal capabilities across the organization.

You will create emerging technology roadmaps that accelerate strategic digital transformation initiatives, aligning both external partner and stakeholder technology roadmaps, and developing strategic technology ecosystem partnerships. Furthermore, you will oversee the ethical and responsible use of data and algorithms for AI, analytics, and automated decision-making. You should excel in your ability to identify, evaluate, and prioritize emerging technologies relevant to airport operations, such as biometrics, AI-driven personalization, and IoT solutions, while building and nurturing strategic relationships with tech companies, startups, and research institutions, and identifying high-potential venture investment opportunities in aviation technology. Lastly, you will build and develop diverse, multi-skilled teams, setting clear goals and fostering a healthy work environment, in addition to performing other related duties as assigned, including delivering regular committee and board updates and managing the annual operating budget.

This is the role for you, if you have:

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, information systems, business administration, or a related field, or equivalent work experience. A Master’s degree in data science, analytics, or an MBA with an analytics focus is preferred
• Industry certifications such as Certified Analytics Professional (CAP) and ITIL are a minimum requirement Preferred certifications include Chief Data Officer (CDAO) programs, Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP), and ISACA CET (Certified in Emerging Technology)
• 10+ years in Data & Analytics and business/industry
• 10+ years of leadership responsibility managing multiple, large, cross-functional teams or projects and influencing senior-level management and key stakeholders
• Experience in IT enterprise architecture and strategic planning
• 10+ years of business experience preferred, ideally in data science, analytics, or business intelligence roles, with 2-3 years in technology scouting, market research, and competitive intelligence
• Working knowledge of data management tools and experience implementing data management practices, including big data technologies, cloud platforms, and analytics software
• Proven experience leading data transformation initiatives across large organizations and enterprise-wide data strategies
• 5+ years of progressive leadership experience in leading cross-functional teams, multidisciplinary environments, and enterprise-wide data and analytics programs
• Familiarity with various analytics technologies and tools (e.g., PowerBI, Tableau) and modern cloud-based analytics platforms (e.g., Microsoft Fabric, GCP, AWS)
• Ability to understand the business significance of data, work with ambiguity, develop creative approaches to analytical problems, and interpret data from an aviation or complex industrial operations perspective
• Experience with data monetization and business value creation from analytics, as well as vendor management and technology partnership development
• Strong expertise in statistical analytical techniques preferred, data mining, and predictive modeling; familiar with tools like SQL, Python, Hadoop, NoSQL databases, and platforms such as Tableau and Power BI.
• Strong understanding of data processes and data flows, SDLC, CI/CD, and cutting-edge data management strategies like Data Mesh
• Experience in risk management and regulatory compliance in data handling
• Background in technology evaluation, proof-of-concept development, and pilot program management, with a track record of strategic tech partnership development and vendor relationships
• 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