WestJet is currently in the midst of its biggest development to date, embarking on a transatlantic expansion that could put it on par with large airline corporations such as Air Canada.
The “WestJet effect” that drew customers in to fly more often with lower prices and a better experience is now at risk. The drastic changes to the airline over the years have caused cultural shifts among employees, resulting in union drives.
Professor Gerard Seijts, Executive Director of Ivey's Ian O. Ihnatowycz Institute of Leadership, spoke with The Financial Post about the challenges for WestJet to maintain a strong work culture.
“When the organization was small, its culture was widely shared and deeply held,” said Seijts. “Now that the organization is getting larger and larger, to manage that becomes a little bit more challenging.”
