Nick Hays has been appointed as the President and CEO of the Winnipeg Airports Authority, effective February 21, 2022, succeeding long-time leader Barry Rempel, who is retiring. Rempel spent 20 years of his career with the Winnipeg Airports Authority, which oversees the operations of Winnipeg Richardson International Airport, CYWG.

“Nick is a values and purpose-driven leader with an impressive combination of airline, logistics, and international experience that will be instrumental in building on our reputation as a Canadian air cargo hub and developing the airport campus for the future benefit of the region,” said Brita Chell, Chair of the Board of Directors, Winnipeg Airports Authority (WAA). “Our industry has seen incredible challenges since the start of the pandemic, and we need the next leader to position us for success in both the short and long-term. The board is confident Nick is that leader.”

Hays joins WAA from his most recent role as Vice President Canada at Vanderlande Industries, a global leader in logistic process automation at airports. Prior to that, he held a senior advisory role with PricewaterhouseCoopers’ transportation and logistics practice. Hays also spent 11 years with Cathay Pacific Airways and its parent company the Swire Group, working in Hong Kong, Auckland, Tokyo, and finally Vancouver where he was Cathay Pacific’s Vice President, Canada.

“I look forward to leading the talented team at WAA and joining a company that has been named one of Manitoba’s Top Employers for the last 10 years,” said Hays. “There is no doubt our industry is facing unprecedented challenges due to COVID-19, but I am excited for the opportunities ahead and know WAA has the right vision and values to move the organization forward in support of our community, customers and stakeholders.”

(Photo: CNW Group/Winnipeg Airports Authority Inc.)