Don Bell

Don Bell

Founder and Former Executive Vice-President, WestJet

Don Bell, one of the four founders of WestJet, is widely credited with helping to make the company one of the most successful airlines in North America. As a frequent pilot at the company, Don understood the needs of WestJet's staff, and the needs of the public, from the ground up. In his role as executive vice-president of culture, Don strove to create a unique atmosphere for his employees, realising that happy staff members create happy customers. Recently retired, Don encourages leaders to take their businesses to new heights by aligning the values and interests of their company with those of their employees, along with a little dose of common sense and a large dose of heart.


Contact Speakers' Spotlight

Don Bell, one of the founders of WestJet, is widely credited with helping to make the company one of the most successful airlines in North America. As a frequent pilot at the company, Don understood the needs of WestJet's staff, and the needs of the public, from the ground up. In his role as executive vice-president of culture, Don strove to create a unique atmosphere for his employees, realising that happy staff members create happy customers. Recently retired, Don encourages business leaders to take their businesses to new heights by aligning the values and interests of their company with those of their employees, along with a little dose of common sense and a large dose of heart.

Don's ideas and leadership were instrumental in taking the start-up airline in 1996 to become one of the few airlines in the world to enjoy quarter after quarter profitability and sustained double-digit business growth. During his tenure, WestJet exemplified the optimal environment for success, winning various business awards including The Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award for Canada, and an International Entrepreneurship Award for Outstanding Teamwork. WestJet was also named Canada's most respected corporation for customer service in 2005.

  • 1. Build the Optimal Environment for Success

    As one of the four founders of WestJet, Canada's "Favourite Airline," Don Bell knows that when you win the hearts and minds of your people they will serve your customers better than anyone else and take your business to amazing new heights!

    In his captivating presentation, Don shares the recipe that was key to WestJet's unparalleled corporate culture and customer experience success. His compelling message about the value of creating an optimal environment for employees will provoke, enlighten, and offer great take-away value for any organization that wishes to soar.