Director of Operations: Aviation Security

Securiguard Services Ltd.; Richmond; On-site; CAD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

We are seeking a transformational leader for the role of Director of Operations: Aviation Security at Vancouver International Airport (YVR). This senior position will drive strategic leadership, culture, and engagement while overseeing aviation screening, escorts, and terminal security operations at a premier North American gateway.

The role requires 10+ years in service operations leadership, a strong track record of building accountability frameworks, and expertise in budget management, risk

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in airport operations, business management, security, or related fields.
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in service operations, ideally within aviation or security sectors.
• Experience designing and managing scorecard systems or program performance frameworks.
• Financial acumen with experience in budget creation, forecasting, and analysis.
• Advanced interpersonal and communication skills—able to influence at all levels.

Responsibilities

• Oversee aviation screening, airside escort, and terminal security operations, ensuring contract compliance and excellence in safety standards.
• Develop and implement a branch-level accountability matrix and performance scorecard, including KPIs related to service delivery, compliance, and customer satisfaction.
• Optimize operational resilience through workflow improvements, technology upgrades, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Lead internal audits and quality assurance efforts.

Skills

Leadership experience

Strategy development

People management

Communication

Data reporting

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in airport operations, business management, security

Security/risk management certification (asset)

Tools

MS Office

Project management tools

Data reporting platforms

Job description

At Securiguard, we don't just protect assets - we safeguard reputations, operations, and the lives of the people behind them. For five decades, we've partnered with organizations across Canada to provide industry-leading security solutions in high-stakes environments. Nowhere is that commitment more visible than at Vancouver International Airport, where we've proudly served as the longest-standing private security provider since 1997.

We are seeking a transformational leader to join our team as Director of Operations: Aviation Security at Vancouver International Airport (YVR) - one of the busiest and most innovative airports in North America. This leader will go beyond operational oversight to build culture, drive engagement, and elevate our services through strong internal communication, accountability frameworks, and a commitment to innovation.

This is more than a security role - it's an opportunity to shape the future of aviation safety at a global gateway.

Role & Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Business Development

• Lead the development and execution of the YVR Branch strategic plan in alignment with corporate direction.
• Work with Finance to create and manage operating budgets and revenue targets.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities and strategic partnerships that reflect Securiguard's mission and growth aspirations.
• Represent Securiguard in discussions with corporate clients and government agencies on aviation security policy and innovation.

Operational Management & Service Excellence

• Oversee delivery of aviation screening, airside escort, and terminal security operations, ensuring contract compliance and excellence in safety standards.
• Develop and implement a branch-level accountability matrix and performance scorecard, including KPIs related to service delivery, compliance, and customer satisfaction.
• Optimize operational resilience through workflow improvements, technology upgrades, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Lead internal audits and quality assurance efforts.

Culture, Communication & Engagement

• Create and champion a values-based leadership culture that emphasizes collaboration, inclusivity, and excellence.
• Establish a structured internal communication strategy-including regular all-hands updates, leadership huddles, and frontline feedback channels-to ensure transparency and alignment.
• Serve as the cultural ambassador for the branch, reinforcing employee recognition programs, DEI initiatives, and ongoing team-building efforts.

People Leadership & Talent Development

• Inspire and lead a diverse team of operations, administrative, and frontline staff.
• Build leadership bench strength through coaching, mentoring, and succession planning.
• Launch and maintain employee development programs tied to role-based competencies and career growth goals.
• Regularly assess engagement using employee surveys and respond with measurable improvement plans.

Program Development & Innovation

• Collaborate cross-functionally to design and roll out new security programs that anticipate client and regulatory needs.
• Develop program frameworks with clear objectives, milestones, metrics, and review cycles.
• Track performance via scorecards to ensure continuous improvement and accountability across all service lines.
• Maintain oversight of equipment, inventory, and procurement processes to ensure cost-effective alignment with operational goals.

Skills & Experience

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience in airport operations, business management, security, or related fields.
• Recognized security or risk management certification is an asset.
• 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in service operations, ideally within aviation or security sectors.
• Strong record of culture-building, team leadership, and employee development.
• Experience designing and managing scorecard systems or program performance frameworks.
• Financial acumen with experience in budget creation, forecasting, and analysis.
• Advanced interpersonal and communication skills-able to influence at all levels.
• Proficiency in MS Office, project management tools, and data reporting platforms.
• Willingness to travel occasionally within the region (Vancouver and Fraser Valley).

At Securiguard, we live by our R.E.A.C.H. values:

Respect · Empathy · Accountability · Courtesy · Honesty

At Securiguard, you'll be part of a team that values collaboration, innovation, and employee growth. This is more than just an administrative role-it's an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by ensuring a seamless and welcoming office environment.