As a Deputy Chief Financial Officer in the Department of National Defence, you will provide strategic financial leadership and oversight of critical financial operations across the organization. Reporting to the Chief Financial Officer, you will be responsible for developing and implementing financial policies, managing departmental budgets, and ensuring compliance with Treasury Board directives and government-wide financial management standards. You will lead a team of financial professionals and work collaboratively with senior management to support DND's mission and operational objectives through sound fiscal management.
In this role, you will oversee key areas such as financial planning and analysis, accounting operations, financial reporting, and resource management. Your decisions directly impact the department's ability to allocate resources effectively to defence and security priorities. You will represent the financial management function at the senior executive level, providing advice to the Deputy Minister and other senior leaders on fiscal matters and financial risk management.
You will work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment that requires strong analytical skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to manage complex financial systems and processes. This position offers the opportunity to shape financial management practices across one of Canada's largest federal organizations and contribute to national defence and security objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Provide strategic direction and leadership for accounting operations 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
Graduate degree preferred; significant experience at the executive level in the public service
Training
Candidates for this role typically hold a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field. A professional accounting designation is essential, such as Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Chartered Accountant (CA), or Certified General Accountant (CGA). Many successful candidates also possess a master's degree in business administration (MBA), finance, or public administration.
Professional development opportunities include advanced training in government accounting standards, Treasury Board policies, and federal financial management frameworks. The Government of Canada supports ongoing professional development through the Public Service Learning Portal and sponsorship of continuing education courses required to maintain professional accounting credentials. You will also have access to executive development programs and leadership training to enhance strategic management capabilities.
Entry Plans
Entry to this position typically occurs through a competitive selection process open to qualified Canadian citizens. Most candidates transition into this role from senior financial management positions within DND or other federal departments, demonstrating progressive experience in financial operations and management.
Common entry pathways include:
• Advancement from Director-level positions in financial management, accounting operations, or financial planning and analysis within DND or other government departments
• Lateral moves from senior financial management roles in other federal organizations, bringing specialized expertise in areas such as financial reporting, budget management, or financial systems
• External recruitment of experienced financial leaders from the private sector or other public sector organizations who meet the required professional qualifications and security clearance requirements
All candidates must obtain a Top Secret security clearance and meet Treasury Board requirements for executive-level positions. The selection process evaluates leadership experience, strategic financial management expertise, and knowledge of government financial management frameworks.
Part-Time Options
Deputy Chief Financial Officer positions are typically full-time, permanent roles due to the strategic nature of the responsibilities and the requirement for consistent senior executive presence and decision-making authority.
However, the Government of Canada is committed to providing flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible. Depending on departmental needs and managerial discretion, some flexibility may be available regarding work location, including hybrid or remote work options for portions of the week. Any flexible arrangements would be negotiated with your manager and must support the continuity of financial oversight and executive-level responsibilities.
Part-time conversion to this position is not typical; however, all Government of Canada employees have access to leave provisions, including parental leave, sick leave, and unpaid leave options as outlined in the collective agreement or employment terms for your classification level.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
