Director, IT Strategy & Planning

WestJet; Calgary; Hybrid; CAD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative airline seeks a Director of IT Strategy & Planning to drive technology solutions that align with business goals. This pivotal role involves developing IT strategies, leading a talented team, and ensuring effective resource management. With a focus on collaboration and performance metrics, the ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic environment, championing process improvements and fostering a culture of innovation. Join a forward-thinking company that values teamwork and offers travel privileges from day one, making this an exciting opportunity for those passionate about technology and leadership.

Benefits

Travel privileges for employee and family

Flexible savings and benefit programs

Fun and friendly workplace culture

Qualifications

• MBA or Bachelor's in IT/Business required.
• 5-7 years in senior IT leadership roles essential.

Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive IT strategy and roadmaps.
• Lead IT Strategy and Planning team, fostering accountability.
• Oversee IT budget and ensure cost-effective resource use.

Skills

Leadership

IT Strategy Development

Budget Management

Metrics and KPIs

Team Building

Conflict Resolution

Communication Skills

Education

MBA

Bachelor's in Computer Science or IT

Job description

Career Opportunities: Director, IT Strategy & Planning (99988)

Requisition ID 99988 - Posted - Information Technology - Calgary, AB (YYC) - WestJet

Posting Close Date: 01/07/2025 (Please note the posting will close at 11:59pm MST)

Please Note: This is a hybrid work position in Calgary Alberta and requires in-person collaboration at the WestJet Campus (22 Aerial Place NE) 3 days per week. This provides flexibility the remaining 40% of the work week. This hybrid work plan allows for critically important learning, collaboration and networking with our colleagues. Specific days in the office are agreed upon by the team.

Overview of the role:

The Director, IT Strategy & Planning is accountable to drive and measure an integrated, modern technology strategy to support the overall business strategy. This role will work with the team to provide an aligned portfolio, architecture practices and department-wide metrics to drive business value. The role reports directly to our Chief Information Officer and helps to enable the team to be a trusted partner that provides technology solutions that are simple, secure, reliable, and cost-effective. The ideal candidate has a proven track record of creating and driving a cost-effective strategy and plan that delivers effective use of technology to drive business performance. This position offers a great opportunity to proactively develop and grow a technology strategy and portfolio within a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work across the department and organization to develop our comprehensive IT strategy, roadmaps and portfolio that enables our business strategy.
• Provide leadership and guidance to all areas within IT to align to the Technology strategy and direction, ensuring we are managing and prioritizing all required initiatives from an IT perspective.
• Form part of the IT Senior Leadership team and work collaboratively across the group while exhibiting the servant leadership mentality that is aligned with WestJet’s culture.
• Establish metrics and KPIs to measure the effectiveness of technology strategies and delivery initiatives.
• Lead and mentor the IT Strategy and Planning team including hiring, career development and performance reviews. Foster a culture of accountability, innovation and team building.
• Provide leadership to an IT Architecture practice that ensures technology strategies align with the broader needs and strategies of the company.
• Oversee the IT budget ensuring cost-effective use of resources and alignment with strategic priorities.
• Champion constant process improvement through automation and orchestration within IT.
• Additional responsibilities as assigned and consistent with the role.

Experience and Qualifications:

• An MBA or bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, business administration or related major or an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• Enterprise IT senior leadership experience in an organization of similar size, scope and complexity to WestJet.
• Minimum of 5-7 years in senior leadership positions directly related to technology delivery or IT Architecture domain.
• Previous experience within the aviation industry would be an asset.
• Recognized as a leader who can translate effectively between technology and business needs.
• Strong metrics-based mindset and approach to operational performance.
• People leadership experience, overseeing teams that are highly autonomous in nature.
• Strong presentation skills; comfortable leading discussions across the organization at all levels.
• Excellent conflict resolution technique and capable of building consensus across multiple organizational structures.
• Proven record of building high performing teams.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

The benefits of being a WestJetter:

• A fun and friendly culture with colleagues who work together to win.
• Travel privileges for you and your family, effective from your start date.
• Savings and Benefit programs that are flexible to meet your specific needs.

Think we are a fit? Apply now!

About WestJet Group of Companies

Together with WestJet's regional airline, WestJet Encore, we offer scheduled service to more than 100 destinations in North America, Central America, the Caribbean and Europe.

Our Safety Promise

At WestJet, the safety and security of our people and our guests is a core value. It is expected that you will use safe work practices to ensure your well-being and the safety of others.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

WestJet is committed to inclusiveness, equity, and accessibility. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply.

For more information about everything WestJet, please visit WestJet.com.