WestJet names H. Taylor new CFO

WestJet Airlines announced the appointment of Harry Taylor to the position of Executive Vice President, Finance, and Chief Financial Officer, effective October 26, 2015.

Harry brings over 20 years of senior financial, operational and strategic experience in the retail and consumer products industries. He joins WestJet from Canadian Tire Corporation where he has worked since 2010, most recently in the position of Senior Vice President, Finance. Prior to his work with Canadian Tire, Harry was CFO with Holt Renfrew and held senior leadership positions with The Home Depot and PepsiCo. In addition to his retail and consumer goods experience, Harry spent eight years in consulting and client service positions with McKinsey & Company and Ernst & Young.

"I am pleased to welcome Harry to the WestJet team", said Gregg Saretsky, WestJet President and CEO. "Harry's extensive financial background combined with his strong retail and operational experience will aid us tremendously as we write the next chapter."

"I am honoured and excited to join WestJet at such an exciting time," said Harry Taylor. "WestJet's commitment to great guest experience, being a great place to work and delivering great returns to shareholders is unsurpassed in the airline industry. I look forward to helping the superb WestJet leadership team and all WestJetters grow the WestJet network and treat more guests to WestJet's caring and friendly guest experience."

As Executive Vice President, Finance, and Chief Financial Officer, Harry will be a key member of WestJet's executive team responsible for overall financial management of the airline, its financial reporting and analysis and long-term financial planning as well as for multiple corporate functions including Controllership, Treasury, Tax, Investor Relations, Supply Chain, and Audit and Advisory. Harry is a chartered accountant and holds a bachelor of commerce degree from Trinity College, University of Toronto and a masters in business administration from the University of Western Ontario.