Rod Barnard, Chair of the Canadian Business Aviation Association (CBAA) announced that Jim Facette, a government-relations expert and association professional, has been named President & CEO of the CBAA, effective December 1st, 2017.
“CBAA made tremendous progress during Rudy Toering’s tenure; its influence in Ottawa is growing, as is our ability to develop and deliver important programs like Partners-in-Safety.” said Mr. Barnard. “Going forward, we wanted to find an individual who had skills and experience to build on what we have accomplished. The selection committee reviewed some excellent candidates; we were unanimous in our view that Jim has the experience, qualifications and abilities to take CBAA to the next level. We are delighted to welcome him to the team.”
With 18-years experience as a senior executive in professional association management, including six years as president and CEO of the Canadian Airports Council (CAC), Jim has a knowledge of aviation-related issues as well as the ability to manage complex and sensitive issues, while balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders.
As head of the CAC, Jim developed strong relationships with elected and non-elected government officials, most particularly with Transport Canada, CBSA and ICAO. Jim also developed working relationships with aviation-related and business organizations, including the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the Air Transport Association of Canada (ATAC), the Helicopter Association of Canada (HAC), the Canadian Council for Aviation and Aerospace (CCAA) and others.
As founding president and CEO of the Canadian Propane Association, Jim was responsible for establishing the organization’s national head office, bringing together provincial membership under on national banner and building its presence and influence in Ottawa with both elected and unelected officials.
He employs a collaborative team-building leadership style that has been effective in nurturing strong relationships with the public sector, that lead to the development, implementation and execution of industry-aware and positive government programs and policy.
“Rudy Toering did a tremendous job to enhance the value of CBAA and raised our profile” said Mr. Barnard. “Currently, we are working on a number of critical files relating to regulations and taxation, with more coming. Our members are counting on us for results, and we are confident that Jim can help us deliver solutions and grow the association.”
