Vice-president, Human Resources and Culture

Role Overview

The Vice-President, Human Resources and Culture reports to the CEO and is a pivotal member of the senior executive team. This role is responsible for developing and implementing a human resources and communications strategy that aligns with Canadian North's goal of being "one unified Canadian North." Key responsibilities include talent planning to meet the demands of our evolving airline network, coaching and executive leadership development, and workforce engagement. A core focus will be cultural awareness, community involvement, and workforce planning tailored to the unique challenges of serving remote northern communities. Additionally, this role will work closely with the communication and stakeholder relations team, ensuring consistent and impactful internal and external messaging that reflects Canadian North's values and commitment to community. The VP will work closely with managers, the Board of Directors, and union representatives to ensure that Canadian North's human capital strategy aligns with the company's values and long-term vision.

Key Responsibilities

• Change Management and Innovation: Lead cultural transformation efforts and continuous improvement projects, aligning HR functions with corporate goals.
• Strategic HR: Design and implement HR and communications strategies that drive employee engagement, recruitment, and retention while reflecting Canadian North's goals and values. Lead a strategic plan to enhance Canadian North's external profile through public communications and targeted government relations, with a goal of attracting and retaining top talent. We want our customers to see themselves in our organization.
• Labour Relations: Act as an advisor on complex labour relations in a unionized environment, providing guidance to the CEO and Board on negotiations, compliance, and employee agreements. Lead development of strategy for collective bargaining and ensure effective Management representation and engagement in collective bargaining.
• Workforce Planning and Talent Development: Champion initiatives to build a resilient workforce, attracting, retaining, and developing talent, especially from the northern communities we serve.
• Community Engagement: Ensure HR and communications policies support Canadian North's commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and local talent development in the communities we serve, fostering community partnerships and cultural initiatives.
• Corporate Training, Disability Management, and Total Rewards: Oversee training programs, disability management, and total rewards initiatives to promote employee growth, compliance, and retention.
• Employee Well-Being and Safety Programs: Develop and oversee initiatives that support employee health, safety, and well-being, tailored to the challenges of remote and northern work environments.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Use data and metrics to guide HR and communications strategies, measuring impact and adjusting programs to support organizational goals.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will be a skilled relationship builder, and strategic leader with a commitment to fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation. This individual will have a background in organizational change, particularly in a unionized, multi-faceted environment.

• Experience: 15+ years in HR management with at least 10 years in senior leadership roles, including experience as a coach and transformation leader. Experience in corporate communications considered an asset.
• Education: Bachelor's degree in HR, Business Administration, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
• Certification: CHRL or CHRE designation or related designation preferred.
• Skills: Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build high-performing teams and foster trust and collaboration.
• Expertise: Labour relations, workforce planning, and talent management within complex, federally regulated environments.
• Future-Ready Workforce: Experience in succession planning and preparing the workforce for future operational needs.
• Employee Advocacy: Demonstrated commitment to employee advocacy, supporting a workplace that promotes inclusivity and cultural awareness.

What We Offer

Canadian North offers a competitive compensation package, including benefits, retirement savings and travel perks. This role provides a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainable growth and cultural preservation within northern communities.