Plaza Premium Group has appointed a commercial development and operations senior vice-president as part of its planned Canadian expansion.

Airport hospitality specialist Plaza Premium Group (PPG) has appointed Pascal Bélanger senior vice-president, commercial development and operations in Canada. Bélanger will report to Plaza Premium Group’s chief operating officer, Sylvio Angelone, and will lead the Group’s commercial and operations throughout Canada. He will also be responsible for developing business strategies to ensure the Group’s commercial success in the market, including portfolio brands Plaza Premium Lounge, Aerotel, ALLWAYS Meet and Greet service, and airport dining.

Bélanger brings over 17 years of experience in commercial and airport operations. He joins PPG after 12 years at Winnipeg Airports Authority (WAA) as executive vice-president, airport and commercial operations. At WAA, he was responsible for all commercial activities, including air service development, air cargo, and real estate and concessions.

Prior to WAA, Bélanger joined Aeroport de Quebec in 2004 as director of development and communications, serving as president and chief operating officer in 2006. During his tenure, he provided strategic and operational leadership at Québec City Jean-Lesage International Airport. He also managed the redevelopment of Québec City airport terminal.

Sylvio Angelone said, “As we transform our business into a new era of travel by putting digital solutions and customer experience in the forefront, we believe there are opportunities for growth, and it is the time to build and scale our airport hospitality solutions in Canada. Pascal Bélanger will drive our vision in this key market.”

PPG has airport hospitality solutions at airports across Canada, including Toronto, Vancouver, Edmonton, Montreal and Winnipeg. In 2021, the Group opened two new lounges at Toronto Pearson International Airport – Landmark Lounge and Concept Lounge – as well as the Air France Lounge in Montreal.