As a Director of Accounting Operations, you will lead and oversee all accounting functions within your organization, ensuring accurate financial reporting, compliance, and operational efficiency. You will manage a team of accounting professionals, develop and implement accounting policies and procedures, and serve as the primary liaison between accounting operations and senior management. This role requires strategic thinking combined with hands-on knowledge of accounting practices and financial systems.
Your responsibilities include managing the accounting budget, directing the preparation of financial statements, ensuring compliance with Treasury Board and departmental financial policies, and implementing improvements to accounting processes and systems. You will also be responsible for staff development, performance management, and fostering a professional and efficient accounting operations environment.
You will work in a dynamic federal government setting where accurate financial management directly supports DND's operational capability and accountability to Parliament. This role offers the opportunity to influence financial management practices across your directorate and contribute to the broader financial health of the Department of National Defence.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of accounting operations services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the accounting operations team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Financial analysis, Accounting principles (PSAS/IFRS), SAP/financial systems, Budgeting, Attention to detail, Team leadership, Operational planning, Stakeholder engagement, Results management
Typical Education
Bachelor's degree or equivalent; significant experience in the relevant discipline with demonstrated leadership
Training
A Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field is typically required. Many successful candidates hold professional accounting designations such as CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant), CGA (Certified General Accountant), or CA (Chartered Accountant). Government of Canada positions at the Director level also require demonstrated experience in financial management and accounting operations at progressively senior levels.
Professional development opportunities are available through the Treasury Board, departmental training programs, and professional accounting associations. You may pursue or maintain professional certifications, attend specialized financial management courses, and participate in leadership development programs offered by the Canada School of the Public Service. The government also supports employees seeking to upgrade their knowledge in emerging financial technologies and systems.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Director-level position typically occurs through one of several pathways. The most common route is through internal promotion from senior accounting positions (such as Manager - Accounting Operations) within DND or other federal departments. Lateral moves from other federal organizations with comparable financial management experience are also considered.
Positions are advertised through the Public Service Commission (PSC) job board and departmental websites. Candidates must be Canadian citizens or have permanent resident status. Competitions are merit-based and typically include written exams, interviews, and assessment of relevant education and experience. Senior-level positions may also be filled through executive recruitment processes or from talent pools established by previous competitions.
The Public Service Commission oversees all staffing to ensure fairness, openness, and merit-based selection. Veterans and Indigenous peoples may have access to priority hiring initiatives where applicable.
Part-Time Options
Director-level positions are typically full-time given the management and strategic responsibilities involved. However, flexible work arrangements may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis depending on operational requirements and departmental policy.
Remote work options have expanded across the federal government. Many accounting operations functions can be performed remotely, particularly in coordination meetings and report preparation. The specific availability of remote work will depend on your directorate's operational needs, security requirements, and departmental guidelines. Discussions about flexible arrangements can occur during the recruitment process or after appointment.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
