As an Assistant Deputy Minister (ADM) of Audit and Evaluation, you lead a critical function within the Department of National Defence that ensures accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement across the organization. In this senior executive role, you oversee audit operations, evaluation initiatives, and internal control frameworks that help DND leadership make informed decisions and demonstrate responsible stewardship of defence resources. You report directly to the Deputy Minister and serve as a key advisor on organizational performance, risk management, and compliance with Treasury Board policies.
Your responsibilities include directing audit and evaluation teams, establishing strategic priorities aligned with government-wide initiatives, managing relationships with external audit bodies such as the Office of the Auditor General, and championing a culture of evidence-based decision-making throughout DND. You develop departmental audit plans, oversee special investigations when needed, and ensure findings and recommendations are implemented effectively. This role requires you to balance operational excellence with the highest professional standards in public sector audit and evaluation practice.
You work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where your decisions directly impact how DND operates and accounts for its stewardship. You collaborate regularly with other senior executives, Treasury Board, Parliament, and federal partners. This position offers the opportunity to shape organizational culture, influence defence policy through evidence, and lead talented professionals in safeguarding public trust.
Key Responsibilities
Provide strategic direction and leadership for general audit and evaluation programs and initiatives, Advise senior management on policy and operational matters, Manage human and financial resources to achieve organizational objectives, Represent the organization in interdepartmental and external forums, Ensure compliance with Treasury Board policies and Government of Canada directives
Required Skills
Analytical skills, Risk assessment, Report writing, Professional skepticism, Data analysis, Senior executive leadership, Strategic planning, Policy direction, Cross-functional management
Typical Education
Graduate degree preferred; significant experience at the executive level in the public service
Training
To qualify for an ADM-level position in Audit and Evaluation, you typically need a university degree in accounting, auditing, finance, public administration, or a related field. A professional designation is highly valued—such as CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant), CIA (Certified Internal Auditor), or CA (Chartered Accountant). Many successful candidates hold master's degrees in business administration, public administration, or specialized audit and evaluation disciplines.
You should have extensive experience in internal audit, external audit, or evaluation roles within the public or private sector, ideally progressing through increasingly senior positions over 15+ years. Government of Canada experience is advantageous but not always required. Professional development is ongoing and may include executive leadership programs, Treasury Board policy updates, specialized training in defence operations and culture, and participation in federal audit and evaluation networks. As a senior executive, you are expected to maintain your professional certifications and stay current with evolving audit standards (such as those set by the Institute of Internal Auditors or IAASB standards for public sector auditing).
Entry Plans
Entry to an ADM role typically occurs through a competitive selection process managed by the Public Service Commission. These are Governor in Council appointments, meaning they require Treasury Board approval and may involve an Order in Council. Candidates usually apply in response to a public competition notice or may be identified through executive talent management and succession planning initiatives.
To reach ADM level, most candidates follow one of these pathways: (1) internal advancement—progressing through audit and evaluation roles within DND or other federal departments, starting at EX-01 or EX-02 levels and advancing to EX-03 and beyond; (2) lateral movement from peer ADM positions in other departments; or (3) external recruitment from senior audit, evaluation, or finance leadership roles in other government jurisdictions, Crown corporations, or the private sector. Your track record of managing large, complex audit portfolios, leading teams, and delivering high-impact recommendations is critical. Candidates at the EX-03 level or equivalent in other organizations may be considered for ADM vacancies. Strong performance in executive development programs and visible contribution to federal audit policy or initiatives can enhance competitiveness.
Part-Time Options
ADM-level positions are typically full-time and do not have formal part-time arrangements. However, the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of work-life balance and flexibility for senior leaders. Depending on departmental needs and individual circumstances, some flexibility in work scheduling may be negotiated—such as flexible start and end times or occasional remote work—though the role requires substantial in-person presence for executive meetings, stakeholder engagement, and strategic direction-setting.
Remote work options have expanded across the federal public service in recent years. An ADM in Audit and Evaluation may work remotely part of the week, particularly for analytical work, report preparation, and virtual meetings, though you are expected to be available on-site regularly for leadership activities, executive committees, and departmental presence. Job sharing or compressed work weeks are not typical arrangements at the ADM level due to the continuous, strategic nature of the role. Discussions about flexible work arrangements can occur during the offer stage or as part of ongoing employment discussions with the Deputy Minister and Human Resources.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
