As a Director - Economics, you lead economic analysis, policy development, and program administration initiatives that support Defence and Security objectives. You provide strategic economic expertise to senior leadership, directing teams of economists and analysts who conduct research, develop evidence-based policies, and evaluate the economic impact of defence programs and initiatives. Your work directly influences decision-making at the highest levels of the Department of National Defence.
In this role, you manage complex economic portfolios, oversee budget analysis and financial forecasting, and ensure that economic considerations are integrated into defence policy and procurement decisions. You work with multiple stakeholder groups across the department, other federal agencies, and external partners to develop comprehensive economic strategies. Your responsibilities include setting direction for your team, mentoring professional staff, and ensuring the quality and integrity of economic analysis.
You work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where economic issues intersect with security policy, defence spending, and strategic planning. This position offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to national defence through rigorous economic analysis and sound policy advice.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of economics services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the economics team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Research methodology, Analytical thinking, Written communication, Policy analysis, Critical reasoning, 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
Most candidates hold a university degree in economics, finance, business, public policy, or a related social science discipline. Advanced education such as a Master's degree in Economics, Public Administration, or Policy Studies is common at the Director level. Some candidates come from related fields such as mathematics, statistics, or engineering with additional training in economics or policy analysis.
Key competencies include advanced economic theory and research methods, policy analysis frameworks, budget and financial management, and data analysis. Many directors pursue professional credentials such as membership in the Canadian Economics Association or related professional bodies. Ongoing professional development is expected, including courses in public sector management, advanced analytical methods, and emerging economic policy areas relevant to defence.
Entry Plans
Entry to the Director - Economics level typically occurs through internal advancement within the federal Public Service. Most candidates progress through intermediate economics positions (Economist or Senior Economist levels) before reaching Director rank. Advancement is achieved through competitive internal staffing processes where your demonstrated expertise, leadership capability, and track record of policy impact are evaluated.
The Public Service may also conduct external recruitment competitions when needed, particularly for candidates with specialized expertise or when suitable internal candidates are unavailable. These competitions are advertised through the Public Service Commission website. Some candidates enter the economics career stream through student programs, graduate recruitment initiatives, or lateral moves from related fields such as finance, statistics, or policy analysis, then advance to Director level over time.
Promotions to Director typically require evidence of sustained high performance, significant contributions to policy or program outcomes, and demonstrated readiness for senior management responsibilities.
Part-Time Options
Director-level positions are typically full-time and ongoing. However, the Public Service does offer flexible work arrangements in some cases, which may include compressed work weeks, flexible start and end times, or hybrid work models combining office and remote work. The extent of flexibility available depends on operational requirements and departmental policy.
Remote work options have expanded across the federal government, and many economic analysis tasks can be performed effectively from home. However, directors are generally expected to be available for in-person meetings, stakeholder engagement, and strategic discussions as required. Discussions about specific flexible arrangements should occur during the staffing process and with your manager once appointed. Career breaks and part-time transitions may be possible in some circumstances through formal leave programs, though these are subject to operational needs and manager approval.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
