Balancing Act: Sitara English-Byfield’s journey through leadership, motherhood, and aviation
SITARA English-Byfield commands the high-stakes environment of aviation management as the CEO of PAC Kingston Airport Limited (PACKAL) — the operator of the Norman Manley International Airport and a subsidiary of Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico — but her influence extends far beyond the terminal. This insightful leader also expertly navigates the multifaceted demands of a thriving career, motherhood and family life, offering a compelling perspective on work-life integration.
English-Byfield’s journey to this pivotal role was shaped by the strong foundation laid during her upbringing in Mount Salem, St James. Raised by a supportive single mother, she learnt the power of hard work, the importance of believing in possibilities, and the values of kindness, truthfulness, and authenticity.
“My mother instilled in me the belief that dedication could unlock any dream,” she reflects. “Her constant reassurance, ‘it will work out’, became a source of strength.”
Even as a young girl, Sitara’s mother observed her innate leadership qualities as she interacted with her childhood friends. This early influence, coupled with crucial support from mentors like Joy Westcarr, her Manchester High School sixth-form guidance counsellor, propelled her towards academic success and, later, into the unexpected realm of aviation. Armed with a Master’s in Economics from The University of the West Indies, a chance encouragement from another mentor, Stacy Hylton, opened the door to MBJ Airports Limited in 2003, setting her on a remarkable career path.
Today, at the helm of PACKAL, English-Byfield oversees the critical operations and development of Kingston’s primary gateway to the world. Her first year as CEO was marked by the formidable task of overseeing major renovations aimed at modernising the airport’s infrastructure. It was during these critical moments — navigating intricate renovation schedules and, more acutely, responding to the aftermath of a fire in the airport’s Club Kingston VIP lounge in March — that her leadership truly shone. She credits the resilience and dedication of the PACKAL team as instrumental in overcoming these hurdles.
“The fire revealed the incredible strength and unity within PACKAL and across our wider airport community as well as the support from our stakeholders,” she reflects. “The way everyone rallied together, from ground staff to senior management, underscored the power of teamwork and our shared commitment to the airport and the community it serves.
“I’m fortunate to work with an exceptional team, and together, we’ve accomplished some major milestones,” she added, citing the runway rehabilitation, chiller replacement, doubling the number of common-use kiosks to 20, and air handling system upgrades. Ongoing projects, such as the runway extension by 300 metres to include runway and safety areas of 150 metres on either end, the taxiway rehabilitation, automating the security pass process, the airport roundabout renovation, improving the tiling in the terminal, and renovating the restrooms, further illustrate her commitment to enhancing the airport for travellers.
English-Byfield with her husband Bjorn, and children Caleb and Nylah-Jade.
Before reaching the pinnacle at PACKAL, English-Byfield’s two-decade career trajectory spanned progressively challenging roles in finance and accounting, leading to her position as chief financial officer, honing her strategic vision and expertise as she ultimately transitioned into the complex world of airport leadership.
Looking ahead, her priorities include strategic partnerships to boost tourism and passenger growth of 2.5 million over the next five years; enhancing the overall passenger experience to include a private alternative exit and a focus on strengthening team cohesion through a common space where all employees share the vision of Kingston Airport being Jamaica’s jewel. Her guiding principle, “paying it forward and leading with kindness, veracity, and authenticity”, informs every decision she makes, both professionally and personally, all while balancing the joys and demands of motherhood.
The key to her equilibrium, she emphasises, lies in strategic planning, effective delegation, and a strong support system at home.
“It’s about prioritising and working efficiently,” she explained.
This approach is mirrored in her family life, where her husband, Bjorn, is a vital partner in raising their son Caleb, 13, and daughter Nylah-Jade, two.
“I am incredibly grateful for my very supportive family and my amazing team; they are my co-pilots on this journey,” she stated as she recounted the March 14 fire at the airport when she received the first message and minutes later had to leave her family for work. While her husband kept her two-year old daughter distracted, she made her way to the airport and never made it back home until well after 3:00 am.
“I am able to be fully engaged at work because of the support system I enjoy with my closely knit family,” the confident CEO mom shared. “It’s about trusting my team and being able to compartmentalise, while always keeping the well-being of both PACKAL and my family at heart.”
Beyond her immediate family, English-Byfield draws immense strength and encouragement from a wider circle of loved ones. The unending support of her mother and brothers, the warm embrace of her husband’s parents and siblings, and the enduring bonds she shares with her solid small circle of friends of over two decades, all contribute significantly to her ability to navigate the demands of her high-profile role.
For her, rest and exercise are also crucial for maintaining her energy and focus, allowing her to traverse the dynamic rhythm of the airport, motherhood and family life.
