As a Director of Conflict Management in the Department of National Defence, you lead the development and implementation of conflict resolution strategies across the organization. You are responsible for establishing policies, procedures, and frameworks that help prevent and resolve workplace disputes, grievances, and labour relations issues. This role requires you to work collaboratively with human resources teams, management, union representatives, and employees to create a positive and productive work environment.
Your responsibilities include overseeing conflict management programs, providing expert advice to senior leadership on complex labour relations matters, and ensuring compliance with collective agreements and employment legislation. You will manage a team of specialists who deliver mediation services, conduct investigations, and provide training on conflict prevention. You may also represent the Department in labour relations proceedings and work with external partners such as the Public Service Labour Relations Board.
You will work in a dynamic environment where you balance the needs of the Department with those of its civilian workforce. Your decisions and leadership directly impact workplace culture, employee engagement, and organizational effectiveness. This role offers the opportunity to influence HR policy at a strategic level and contribute to a respectful, inclusive workplace.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of conflict management services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the conflict management team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
HR policy interpretation, Interpersonal skills, Staffing and classification, Conflict resolution, Labour relations knowledge, 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
To qualify for this position, you typically need a bachelor's degree in human resources management, labour relations, psychology, business administration, or a related field. Many candidates hold a master's degree in Human Resources Management, Industrial Relations, or Business Administration, which provides competitive advantage. Professional certifications such as the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) or Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) designation are highly valued.
Essential knowledge areas include conflict resolution theory and practice, labour relations, employment law, mediation and negotiation techniques, and human resources management principles. Government of Canada employees have access to professional development opportunities through the Canada School of Public Service, including courses on labour relations, conflict management, and leadership. Many directors pursue ongoing education in specialized areas such as workplace investigations, alternative dispute resolution, and strategic human resources planning. Your experience in managing complex interpersonal situations and stakeholder relationships will be continuously refined throughout your career.
Entry Plans
Entry to this director-level position typically occurs through one of several pathways. Most candidates advance internally within the Public Service after demonstrating success in intermediate HR or conflict management roles, such as Advisor or Senior Advisor positions. These intermediate roles provide essential experience in labour relations, grievance management, and workplace conflict resolution.
You may enter the federal Public Service through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). The Department of National Defence also participates in the Public Service Commission's recruitment processes for specialized HR positions. Some candidates transition laterally from other federal departments or agencies with equivalent experience in human resources management or labour relations.
If you are new to the federal Public Service, you might begin your career through student or early-career recruitment programs, then advance to intermediate positions before reaching the director level. Alternatively, external candidates with significant private sector or provincial/territorial government experience in HR management and conflict resolution may apply directly to director-level competitions when they are open. Building a strong track record in conflict management, labour relations, and people leadership is essential for progression to this senior role.
Part-Time Options
Director-level positions in conflict management are typically full-time, as these senior leadership roles require consistent presence and availability for managing complex situations, leading teams, and representing the Department in labour relations matters. However, the Government of Canada is committed to work-life balance and flexible work arrangements.
Many directors in this field have access to flexible work schedules that may include compressed work weeks or adjusted hours, though the core responsibilities require regular full-time engagement. Remote work options may be available for certain administrative and planning tasks, though in-person presence is often necessary for mediation sessions, investigations, and stakeholder meetings. Telework arrangements are typically negotiated on a case-by-case basis depending on operational needs and the specific work being performed.
If you are interested in flexible or part-time work, discuss your needs with the hiring manager during the recruitment process. The Department of National Defence recognizes that supporting employee wellness and flexibility contributes to retention and organizational effectiveness, and will work with qualified candidates where operationally feasible.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
