The Deputy Minister - Information Management is a strategic leadership position within the Department of National Defence, responsible for directing and managing the Department's information management policies, systems, and operations. In this role, you provide senior-level advice to the Minister and senior leadership on information management priorities, digital transformation initiatives, and data governance frameworks that support Defence operations and objectives. You oversee a large portfolio including records management, library services, information technology systems, data analytics, and compliance with federal information access and privacy legislation.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include developing information management strategies aligned with Defence priorities and Treasury Board directives, managing substantial budgets and departmental resources, leading senior management teams, and ensuring the Department meets its obligations under the Access to Information Act, Privacy Act, and other legislative requirements. You work collaboratively with other government departments, particularly Treasury Board Secretariat and Library and Archives Canada, to ensure information management excellence across the federal government.
This position operates in a dynamic, high-pressure environment where decisions directly impact Defence operations and public accountability. You work at the executive level, attending senior management committees and providing strategic guidance on how information management capabilities can enhance Defence effectiveness, cybersecurity posture, and operational efficiency.
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, 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 this position typically hold a university degree, with many possessing advanced qualifications such as a Master's degree in business administration, information systems, public administration, or a related field. Professional certifications in information management, records management (such as those offered by the Canadian Information Processing Society or international bodies), project management, or IT service management are valuable. Extensive experience in senior management roles, preferably within the federal public service, is essential.
Ongoing professional development is encouraged and may include executive leadership programs offered through the Canada School of Public Service, specialized training in emerging information technologies, data governance frameworks, and participation in professional associations related to information management and government service. Many Deputy Ministers participate in senior executive networks and may pursue certifications in areas such as Chief Information Officer competencies or digital transformation leadership.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Deputy Minister level position occurs through a closed, merit-based recruitment process overseen by Treasury Board Secretariat and the Privy Council Office. The typical pathway involves significant prior experience in senior management roles within the federal public service, such as Director General or Assistant Deputy Minister positions. Candidates are usually identified from the federal government's senior management talent pool or through targeted recruitment of individuals with exceptional records of accomplishment in information management, strategic planning, and executive leadership.
This position is not typically filled through the standard entry-level recruitment processes used for junior public servants. Instead, successful candidates have demonstrated sustained excellence through multiple promotions and assignments within the federal government, often holding progressively senior roles in information technology, information management, or related business functions. External candidates with equivalent senior leadership experience in other levels of government or the private sector may also be considered, but this remains uncommon. Lateral movement from other Deputy Minister or Associate Deputy Minister positions within the federal government is also possible.
Part-Time Options
This position is full-time and requires the flexibility and availability expected of senior executive roles within the federal government. The nature of Deputy Minister responsibilities—including participation in senior management committees, Cabinet briefings, and strategic planning initiatives—generally necessitates a full-time commitment. However, like all federal public service positions, it is subject to the Treasury Board's travel, telework, and flexible work policies. Senior executives may have the flexibility to work from multiple locations as operational requirements permit, though the demands of the role typically require regular presence in the National Capital Region where departmental headquarters is located. Any formal part-time or job-sharing arrangements at this level would require specific approval from Treasury Board and would be exceptional.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
