West Wind Aviation president and chief executive officer Michael Rodyniuk has accepted a leadership position in the United States with Willis Lease Finance Corporation, effective 1 March, 2020. Current chair of the board of directors Stephen Smith will become acting president, chief executive officer and accountable executive while the company conducts a search for its next president and CEO.

“Michael has brought us a long way forward in restructuring West Wind and our associated companies. His service to the company as well as his commitment to our northern communities has been invaluable and will be missed; however, the board understands the significant opportunity before him. We wish him every success with his new assignment,” says Smith.

“Together with the entire West Wind team, we have made incredible strides over the last two years in positioning West Wind Aviation for a great future," adds Rodyniuk. “I rest assured it is in good hands with the executive, management and team members at the company as well as with Steve's experience and leadership.”

Smith's aviation executive experience is significant. He was first nominated and appointed to the West Wind Aviation board of directors in February 2019, rapidly ascending to chair the board in June 2019. He has served in senior executive roles with many airlines including Air Canada as senior vice president, customer experience; president and CEO of Air Canada's ZIP; president and chief executive officer of WestJet Airlines; and president and CEO of the regional carrier Air Ontario.