As a Director of Diversity, Inclusion and Employment Equity (DIEE), you will lead strategic initiatives that promote a workplace culture where all employees feel valued, respected and supported. You will develop and implement comprehensive policies, programs and action plans to advance diversity and inclusion across the organization, while ensuring compliance with Canadian human rights legislation and Treasury Board directives. This role requires you to champion organizational change at the senior level, working collaboratively with departments, unions and external stakeholders to create meaningful systemic improvements.
Your key responsibilities include developing DIEE strategies aligned with organizational goals, overseeing employment equity compliance and reporting, managing human and financial resources dedicated to these initiatives, and providing expert advice to senior leadership on diversity and inclusion matters. You will conduct analysis of workforce demographics, identify barriers to inclusion, and lead the design and delivery of programs addressing recruitment, retention, advancement and workplace culture. You will also mentor your team, manage budgets, evaluate program effectiveness and ensure accountability for results.
You will work in a dynamic federal government environment where diversity and inclusion are increasingly recognized as essential to organizational success and service delivery. This role involves regular collaboration with Human Resources, Communications, Indigenous Services, and business units across the organization. You may participate in interdepartmental working groups, attend meetings with senior executives and external partners, and represent the organization at conferences and public events.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of diversity, inclusion and employment equity services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the diversity, inclusion and employment equity 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
Minimum qualifications typically include a bachelor's degree in human resources, business administration, social sciences, law or a related field. A master's degree in human resources management, organizational development, public administration or similar discipline is valued. You should hold or be willing to obtain professional certifications such as the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) or equivalent designation. Knowledge of Canadian human rights legislation, employment standards, Treasury Board policies and Treasury Board Secretariat directives on diversity and inclusion is essential. Professional development opportunities in DND and across the Government of Canada include advanced leadership training, diversity and inclusion specialized courses, change management programs, and executive education at institutions like the Canada School of Public Service. You are encouraged to maintain memberships in professional associations such as the Canadian HR Professionals Association, attend relevant conferences and workshops, and pursue continuous learning in emerging diversity, equity and inclusion practices.
Entry Plans
Entry into this Director-level position typically occurs through federal public service staffing processes. Most candidates enter at this level through external or internal competitions after gaining 5-10 years of progressive experience in human resources, diversity and inclusion, or related fields. Government of Canada experience is advantageous but not always required. The Public Service Commission conducts competitions that evaluate candidates on required and asset qualifications. Some candidates may transition laterally from other HR management roles within DND or other federal departments. If you are new to the federal public service, you may enter at a lower HR management level (such as Manager or Senior Advisor) through competitions or student recruitment programs including the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Canadian Experience Class, then progress to the Director level. Networking with DND HR professionals, monitoring the Government of Canada's official job posting site (jobs.gc.ca) and connecting with departmental recruitment services are effective ways to learn about opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Director-level positions are typically full-time permanent roles due to the strategic nature of the responsibilities and need for consistent senior leadership presence. However, the Government of Canada and DND do offer flexible work arrangements for managers and directors, subject to operational requirements and approval. These may include flexible hours, compressed work weeks, or partial telework arrangements negotiated with your supervisor and departmental management. Remote work options have expanded since 2020, and many strategic work can be performed remotely, though some in-person attendance at meetings, events and the workplace is generally expected. Part-time director roles are uncommon in the federal public service, but employees who have held director positions may have access to reduced-hours options in specific circumstances. If flexible or part-time work is important to you, discuss options with the hiring manager and HR advisor during the recruitment process, as arrangements vary by department and operational context.
