As an Assistant Deputy Minister (ADM) for Information Management, you would serve as a senior executive leader responsible for shaping and directing information management strategy across Department of National Defence (DND) operations. In this role, you would oversee the development, implementation, and management of information systems, data governance, and digital transformation initiatives that support Defence's operational and administrative functions. You would report directly to the Deputy Minister and work collaboratively with other senior leaders to align information management priorities with broader departmental and Government of Canada objectives.
Your key responsibilities would include establishing information management policies and standards, directing large-scale technology and digital initiatives, managing substantial budgets, and leading teams of specialized professionals. You would serve as an advisor to senior government officials on information technology matters, represent DND on Treasury Board committees, and ensure compliance with government-wide digital standards and security requirements. This role demands strategic thinking, strong executive presence, and the ability to navigate complex organizational and technological challenges in a dynamic security environment.
The work environment is fast-paced and demanding, requiring you to balance immediate operational needs with long-term digital transformation goals. You would interact regularly with senior government officials, industry partners, and international counterparts, and your decisions would impact Defence's operational readiness and organizational effectiveness.
Key Responsibilities
Provide strategic direction and leadership for general information management 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
Records management, ATIP legislation, Information governance, Classification systems, Digital literacy, 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
Candidates typically hold a university degree in a relevant discipline such as computer science, information technology, business administration, engineering, or a related field. Many successful candidates at this level hold graduate degrees (Master's or MBA). You should possess extensive professional experience in information management, technology leadership, or related senior management roles, typically 15+ years, with at least 5-10 years in progressively senior leadership positions. Advanced knowledge of government digital transformation, cybersecurity principles, enterprise architecture, and IT governance is essential. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in both English and French, as this is often a requirement for ADM-level positions. Professional certifications such as PMP, ITIL, CISSP, or equivalent are an asset. Ongoing professional development is expected at this level, including participation in executive leadership programs, senior management forums, and continuous learning in emerging technology trends.
Entry Plans
Entry to an ADM-level position typically occurs through advertised competitions open to current Public Service employees or, in some cases, external candidates with exceptional qualifications. Candidates usually progress through a series of increasingly senior positions within the federal Public Service, such as Director, Director General, or Chief Information Officer roles before being considered for ADM appointments. The Public Service Commission conducts rigorous staffing processes for these positions, including interviews, assessments, and reference checks. Some candidates may enter through lateral moves from other departments or agencies where they have held equivalent senior management roles. Internal talent development programs and executive succession planning initiatives may also identify high-potential managers for advancement to ADM positions. Interested candidates should monitor the Treasury Board Jobs website and departmental career portals for competition announcements, and should consider building their experience in progressively senior information management roles within the federal government.
Part-Time Options
Due to the strategic and executive nature of this position, full-time commitment is expected. However, like other senior executive roles in the federal Public Service, flexibility may be available on a case-by-case basis through discussions with the Deputy Minister. Remote work arrangements may be negotiable depending on operational requirements and the nature of specific duties. While the role is inherently demanding and typically requires regular on-site presence at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa, modern flexibility practices may allow for some work-from-home days when approved by senior leadership. Any arrangement would need to balance operational demands, security requirements, and the need for executive presence in strategic meetings and departmental governance forums. Candidates should be prepared to discuss flexibility requirements during the competition process.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
