The Deputy Minister - Education is a senior executive leadership position within the Department of National Defence. As Deputy Minister, you serve as the senior civilian advisor to the Minister and are responsible for the strategic direction, management, and accountability of the department's education and training functions. This role requires you to develop and implement policies, programs, and initiatives that align with government priorities while ensuring effective stewardship of public resources.
In this position, you will lead a large organization with multiple divisions, manage substantial budgets, and oversee personnel across various locations. Your responsibilities include setting organizational strategy, ensuring compliance with Treasury Board directives and Treasury Board policies, managing stakeholder relationships at the highest levels of government, and representing the department in national and international forums. You will work closely with the Minister's office, other government departments, and external partners to advance the government's education and training agenda.
The work environment is dynamic and demanding, requiring you to balance competing priorities, manage complex issues, and make decisions that impact thousands of employees and millions of Canadians. You will work in Ottawa with frequent travel to other locations across Canada and internationally. The role demands strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to navigate complex organizational and political environments.
Key Responsibilities
Provide strategic direction and leadership for general education 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
Instructional design, Facilitation, Curriculum development, Assessment, Adult learning principles, Executive leadership, Strategic vision, Stakeholder management at the most senior levels, Ministerial advisory
Typical Education
Graduate degree typically required; extensive senior executive experience in the federal public service
Training
Candidates for Deputy Minister positions typically hold a master's degree in a relevant field such as education, public administration, business administration, or a related discipline. A bachelor's degree from a recognized institution is the minimum educational requirement, with preference given to candidates with advanced qualifications.
Extensive professional experience is essential, with candidates expected to have a minimum of 15-20 years of progressive leadership experience in large, complex organizations. Experience in the public sector, education sector, or both is highly valued. Professional certifications or memberships in relevant professional associations may be advantageous.
Ongoing professional development is expected at this level and includes participation in senior executive leadership programs, attendance at national and international conferences, and engagement with professional networks. The Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat and the Public Service Commission offer various development opportunities for senior executives. Candidates must maintain current knowledge of government policies, treasury board directives, education trends, and emerging issues in their field.
Entry Plans
Entry to the Deputy Minister - Education position occurs through a competitive recruitment and selection process managed by the Public Service Commission. Candidates are typically identified through executive search processes that may include both internal and external recruitment. Interested candidates must meet the eligibility requirements as outlined in the specific competition notice.
Internal candidates often advance to Deputy Minister positions after serving in progressively more senior roles, such as Assistant Deputy Minister or Director General positions within the Public Service. A strong track record of demonstrated leadership, strategic thinking, and results is essential for advancement.
Candidates from outside the federal Public Service may compete for Deputy Minister positions if they meet the eligibility criteria, which typically include Canadian citizenship or permanent residency status and the ability to obtain a security clearance. All candidates must demonstrate the required competencies through the selection process, which may include written examinations, interviews, and reference checks.
The position reports directly to the Minister and may require Privy Council approval depending on Treasury Board guidelines. Once appointed, the Deputy Minister serves at the pleasure of the Governor in Council.
Part-Time Options
Deputy Minister positions are full-time, permanent roles and are not typically available on a part-time basis due to the nature and scope of the responsibilities. The role requires your presence in Ottawa and availability to respond to urgent government priorities, ministerial requirements, and national issues as they arise.
While the position is not offered on a part-time or job-share basis, the department is committed to supporting work-life balance for all employees. Flexible arrangements may be negotiated within operational limits, particularly regarding remote work options for specific tasks or meetings. However, the core responsibilities and accountability of the Deputy Minister role require consistent full-time engagement.
As a senior executive, you will be expected to work beyond standard business hours as required to fulfill ministerial and departmental obligations. The demands of the position may include evening events, weekend work during crisis situations, and travel on short notice. These expectations are inherent to the Deputy Minister role across the federal Public Service.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
