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Victoria Airport Authority Announces Retirement of President and CEO Geoff Dickson
Feb 28, 2023
Victoria Airport Authority (VAA) today announced that Geoff Dickson, President and CEO, has advised the Board of Directors of his plans to retire in September 2023 after 12 years of leading the organization. The Board of Directors will engage an executive search firm to recruit the next President and CEO.
“Under Geoff’s leadership, Victoria Airport Authority created an exceptional airport, championed environmental initiatives, and prudently developed airport lands to diversify revenue and create jobs for the community,” said Cathie Ounsted, Chair of the Board of Directors. “During Geoff’s tenure, VAA has received several diverse awards, including BC’s Top 100 Employers (since 2020), Airports Council International Best Regional Airport North America (3 times), and the Air Transport Research Society Most Financially Efficient Airport in North America under 5 million passengers (4 times). His steady leadership in navigating the pandemic with no staff lay-offs ensured VAA was well positioned for recovery. On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Geoff for his vision and leadership and wish him all the best in his retirement.”
From 2011 until the onset of the pandemic in 2020, YYJ was one of the fastest-growing airports in the country with close to a 40% increase in passenger volumes. Ambitious capital programs were implemented to modernize the terminal building, increase airfield capacity, improve runway safety, and add community amenities such as a 9 km multi-use trail around the airport. These capital programs were completed while ensuring VAA remained debt-free.
Before joining VAA as President and CEO in 2011, Mr. Dickson spent 12 years with Calgary-based Canadian Airlines followed by 12 years with BC Ferries in Victoria. “It has been a privilege and an honour to have served Victoria International Airport,” said Dickson. “The ongoing success of our airport is due to the collective efforts of a dedicated Board of Directors, a talented team of employees, and committed industry partners. I am proud of what our team has accomplished, and I wish to thank all the individuals whom I have had the pleasure of working with during my time here.”
The Board of Directors has formed a Task Force to oversee the search for its next President and CEO. The Board will seek a leader who will recognize, support, and grow the YYJ culture and who will continue to drive the strategic focus on safety and security, exceptional airport facilities, customer experience, financial responsibility, and sustainable environmental management
About Victoria Airport Authority
Victoria Airport Authority is a not-for-profit authority that has managed the safe and secure operations of the Victoria International Airport on behalf of the surrounding communities since April 1, 1997.
Media Contact Victoria Airport Authority
Rod Hunchak
Director, Business Development and Community Relations
Phone: 250-953-7514
