Michael Rousseau is a Canadian business executive best known for serving as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Canada. Throughout his career, he has played a key role in strengthening the airline’s financial performance, expanding its global operations, and positioning it as one of North America’s leading carriers.
Born in 1958 in Cornwall, Ontario, Rousseau earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from York University. Before joining Air Canada, he held senior executive positions in finance and corporate leadership, including serving as President of the Hudson’s Bay Company. In 2007, he joined Air Canada as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, where he contributed to the airline’s long-term financial strategy and modernization.
In 2021, Rousseau became President and Chief Executive Officer of Air Canada. Under his leadership, the company successfully recovered from the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, expanded its international route network, invested in customer experience and sustainability initiatives, and strengthened its financial position. His leadership has also extended internationally through his role as Chair of the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board.
Widely respected for his expertise in corporate strategy, finance, and aviation, Michael Rousseau is regarded as one of Canada’s leading business executives. His leadership has helped shape Air Canada’s continued growth and reinforce its position in the global airline industry.
