36-month contract, 40 hours per week As De Havilland Canada approaches its 100th anniversary in 2028, we are seeking an experienced, strategic, and highly collaborative Program Director to lead the planning, development, and execution of our Centennial Program over the next three years. Reporting to the designated Executive Sponsor, the Program Director will work across all areas of the business to deliver a coordinated national program that engages employees, customers, government, industry, and communities across Canada. This role requires an exceptional relationship builder who combines strategic thinking, strong program management, and communications expertise with the ability to execute complex, high-profile initiatives.

Develop and execute the company’s comprehensive Centennial Program strategy, roadmap, and implementation plan. Develop and manage program governance, budgets, schedules, milestones, performance metrics, and reporting. Identify opportunities to create meaningful legacy initiatives that extend beyond the centennial year and strengthen De Havilland Canada’s long-term brand and community impact.

Lead the planning and execution of a diverse portfolio of centennial events, including employee celebrations, customer and industry events, public open houses, community activities, VIP engagements, and commemorative ceremonies. Build and maintain solid relationships with employees, customers, suppliers, government representatives, aviation organizations, museums, industry associations, educational institutions, Indigenous partners, and community organizations.



Foster engagement across De Havilland Canada’s sites to encourage local participation while maintaining a cohesive national vision.

Serve as the primary liaison between internal and external stakeholders throughout the program lifecycle. Communications & Public Relations Partner with Corporate Communications and Marketing to develop and implement an integrated communications strategy supporting the Centennial Program. Support the development of executive speeches, announcements, publications, digital content, historical storytelling, and promotional materials.

Develop collaborative relationships with government agencies, aviation organizations, museums, educational institutions, community organizations, and industry associations. Partner with Corporate Archives and Heritage on initiatives that celebrate, preserve, and showcase De Havilland Canada’s history, including collaborating with retirees, museums, aviation organizations, and internal subject matter experts to collect stories, artifacts, photographs, and historical content. Support the development of legacy projects that create lasting value beyond the centennial celebration.

Program & Project Management Oversee multiple concurrent initiatives while effectively managing budgets, timelines, resources, and priorities. Identify program risks and develop mitigation strategies to ensure successful delivery.



Prepare regular progress reports and presentations for senior leadership and governance committees.

Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in strategic marketing, communications, public relations, program management, or a related field. Degree or diploma in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, Business, Event Management, or a related discipline, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Exceptional project and program management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.

Strong organizational, planning, and execution skills with exceptional attention to detail. Ability and willingness to travel regularly within Canada. Knowledge of the Canadian aviation or aerospace industry, supported by an established network within the aviation community.

Experience leading national or large-scale events or programs such as expos, festivals, product launches, corporate anniversary events, or commemorative programs.

Personal

Attributes An exceptional relationship builder with strong networking and influencing skills. Creative, resourceful, and solutions oriented. Highly organized and comfortable managing multiple complex initiatives simultaneously.

Professional, diplomatic, and confident working with senior executives and external stakeholders. Passionate about storytelling, corporate heritage, and creating meaningful experiences. By the conclusion of the three-year term, the Program Director will have successfully delivered a nationally coordinated Centennial Program that: Strengthens relationships with employees, customers, government, industry partners, and communities.

📌 Program Coordinator, Museum (Calgary)
🏢 Westerkirk Capital
📍 Calgary