As a Director of Human Resources (HR) Management, you will lead and manage comprehensive human resources functions for Department of National Defence (DND) organizations. In this leadership role, you develop HR strategies aligned with organizational goals, oversee recruitment and staffing initiatives, manage employee relations, and ensure compliance with Treasury Board policies and Canadian labour legislation. You work at the strategic level, translating departmental priorities into effective HR programs and services that support operational readiness and employee engagement across military and civilian workforces.
Your responsibilities include directing HR teams, managing budgets and resources, developing and implementing HR policies and procedures, and advising senior leadership on people management issues. You serve as the principal HR advisor to senior officers and civilian executives, providing guidance on organizational development, succession planning, performance management, and workplace culture. You collaborate with other government departments and external partners to align DND practices with government-wide HR standards.
You will work in a dynamic, mission-focused environment where HR decisions directly impact operational effectiveness. Your role requires strong analytical skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to manage complex workplace issues with sensitivity and professionalism. You may work at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa, regional establishments, or major DND facilities across Canada, depending on organizational needs.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of general human resources services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the general human resources 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 succeed in this role, you typically require a bachelor's degree in human resources, business administration, organizational psychology, or a related discipline. Professional certification through the Canadian Council of Human Resources Associations (CCHRA) or equivalent (such as the Certified Human Resources Professional designation) is highly valued. Experience in federal government HR practices, Treasury Board policies, and public service labour relations is essential.
DND supports continuous professional development through training in strategic HR management, organizational change, labour relations, and federal government systems. You may pursue advanced certifications, leadership programs, or specialized training in areas such as diversity and inclusion, mental health in the workplace, or organizational development. The department provides access to learning resources through the Canadian Forces Learning Portal and external institutions.
Entry Plans
Entry to this director-level position typically occurs through advertised competitions open to Canadian citizens. Most candidates come from mid-to-senior level HR roles within DND or other federal departments, bringing 7-10 years of progressive HR experience. You may enter through:
- Open competitions advertised on the Public Service Commission (PSC) website and DND careers portal, open to all qualified candidates
- Internal mobility programs allowing current DND employees to apply for posted positions
- Lateral moves from other federal departments or provincial/municipal governments with recognized HR management experience
- Educational pathways for those with relevant degrees and HR background who have worked through intermediate HR positions
Successful candidates must obtain security clearance (typically Secret level) and pass reference checks. Government of Canada HR experience or knowledge of Treasury Board policies is highly competitive. Some positions may be designated as bilingual (English/French) depending on location and reporting relationships.
Part-Time Options
Full-time employment is standard for director-level HR management positions due to the strategic responsibilities and leadership requirements. However, the federal Public Service offers flexible work arrangements that may be negotiated with your manager, including compressed work weeks or flexible hours within operational requirements.
Remote work options have expanded across DND; depending on your specific location and duties, you may negotiate partial work-from-home arrangements. However, directorate roles typically require regular on-site presence for meetings with senior leadership, team management, and organizational engagement. Telecommuting for specific tasks (policy development, planning) is often possible, but the strategic nature of the role means you will spend considerable time in collaborative, in-person settings.
Part-time or job-sharing arrangements at the director level are uncommon in federal HR management due to continuity and accountability requirements, though individual circumstances may be discussed with Human Resources advisors. The Public Service provides other supports such as employee assistance programs, parental leave, and unpaid leave options within collective agreement provisions.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
