As a Director of Human Resources Policy, you will lead the development and implementation of strategic human resources policies and frameworks across the Department of National Defence. This role involves working at a senior level to shape HR practices that support organizational effectiveness, employee engagement, and compliance with federal legislation. You will oversee teams of HR specialists and analysts, directing their work on policy analysis, program development, and organizational change initiatives.
Your responsibilities include analyzing trends in human resources management, consulting with stakeholders across the department and other government agencies, and recommending policy changes that align with Treasury Board directives and departmental priorities. You will prepare briefing materials for senior management, lead working groups on complex HR issues, and ensure policies reflect best practices in public sector human resources. This position requires strong strategic thinking, excellent communication skills, and the ability to manage competing priorities in a complex organizational environment.
You will work in a collaborative, fast-paced setting where your decisions directly impact how the department attracts, develops, and retains civilian and military personnel. The role offers significant opportunity to influence organizational culture and contribute to the achievement of Defence strategic objectives through effective people management practices.
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
A bachelor's degree from an accredited university is required. Preferred fields of study include human resources management, business administration, public administration, industrial relations, or related disciplines. Some positions may accept relevant professional experience in lieu of formal education.
Professional certifications are valued, such as membership with the Canadian Industrial Relations Association (CIRA), the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA), or international credentials like the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). These certifications demonstrate commitment to professional standards and current knowledge of HR practices.
Continuing professional development is important in this role. The Government of Canada provides access to learning opportunities through the Canada School of Public Service, including courses in policy development, change management, labour relations, and senior leadership. You may also pursue specialized training in areas such as organizational design, compensation and benefits policy, or employment law to deepen expertise in specific HR domains.
Entry Plans
Entry to this director-level position typically occurs through several pathways within the federal Public Service. Most candidates progress to this level after gaining experience in intermediate HR roles, such as Human Resources Advisor or Human Resources Officer positions, usually requiring 5-10 years of progressively responsible experience in public sector human resources.
Positions are advertised through the Public Service Commission (PSC) and the Government of Canada Jobs website. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. The selection process includes a written exam, interviews, and assessment of educational credentials and experience.
Some candidates enter at this level through lateral moves from other government departments or agencies with equivalent HR management experience. There are limited student or early-career entry programs at the director level; however, the Government of Canada offers the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and post-secondary recruitment initiatives that can lead to permanent positions. Advancement to director roles is competitive and based on demonstrated competency in HR management, policy development, and leadership.
Understanding of DND's unique environment, including military culture and defence policy, is an asset. However, the federal government values transferable HR expertise, and strong performers from other departments are encouraged to apply when positions are advertised.
Part-Time Options
Director-level positions in federal Human Resources are typically full-time roles. However, the Government of Canada is committed to supporting work-life balance and flexible work arrangements where operational requirements permit.
Remote and hybrid work options have become more available across the Public Service following the COVID-19 pandemic. Many HR policy and strategic work can be performed effectively from a home office or alternative work location, with flexibility to work in the departmental office for meetings, collaboration, and relationship building with stakeholders.
Work arrangements are negotiated between the employee and manager based on business needs and the nature of the work. Given the senior leadership nature of this position, you may be expected to maintain some presence at the office for meetings with executives, interdepartmental coordination, and organizational visibility. The specific flexibility available depends on the branch, the current work environment policy, and individual circumstances. Prospective candidates are encouraged to discuss flexible work options with the hiring manager during the recruitment process.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
