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West Wind Aviation Group (WWA) has announced the appointment of Stephen Smith as an independent director to WWA’s board of directors.
Chair of the board, Geoff Gay, said the appointment of Smith to WWA’s board is a strong, intentional and strategic move for them. “Steve brings an incredible amount of aviation knowledge to the board, ensuring we are informed on both operational issues as well as aviation finance, key measurements and performance indicators. WWA will be well served with Steve’s contributions on our board as we continue to implement our new strategic business plan,” said Gay.
Smith’s aviation executive experience is significant. He has served in senior executive roles within Air Canada including the senior vice-president, customer experience; as president and CEO of the regional carrier Air Ontario; president and CEO of Air Canada’s ZIP; and the president and CEO of WestJet Airlines, responsible for taking the latter public in one of Canada’s most successful Initial Public Offerings (IPOs).
“West Wind Aviation has evolved into a significant regional player, with a depth of resources and incredible, talented people,” said Smith. “The rejuvenation of the management team with a new ‘strategic’ business plan places the company in a position with a bright future; I’m delighted to join and be a part of this successful regional business,” Smith declared.
In recent months the company has hired a new CEO and president, who has renewed the leadership of the WWA companies, attracting leaders for each entity with strong industry experience and set the group of companies on a course for success.
“Having Steve join our team is an incredibly positive move for West Wind and all our subsidiaries,” said Michael Rodyniuk, CEO and president of the WWA and all companies under the umbrella of WWA. Smith’s experience with regional carriers, large “traditional” carriers as well as new low-cost carriers (LCCs) gives West Wind’s board and management the depth of experience necessary to establish and fortify our base, while looking to grow in the future.”
The WWA Group includes West Wind Aviation, Transwest Air, Northern Shield Helicopters, Snowbird Aviation Services and Pronto Airways. Through its group of companies West Wind Aviation Group provides air transportation services to remote, regional Canadian locations, with scheduled, charter and customized solutions.
