As a Director of Legislative Services within the Department of National Defence, you will lead the development and implementation of legislative strategies and legal frameworks that support military operations and defence policy. This role sits at the intersection of law, governance, and national security, requiring you to interpret complex legislation, provide legal counsel to senior leadership, and ensure DND compliance with federal statutes and regulations. You will manage a team of legal professionals and legislative specialists, directing their work on matters ranging from parliamentary affairs to regulatory compliance. Your strategic guidance will directly influence how the Department operates within the legal framework established by Parliament, making this a pivotal leadership position in Canada's defence organization.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of legislative services services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the legislative services team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Bachelor's degree or equivalent; significant experience in the relevant discipline with demonstrated leadership
Training
To succeed in this role, you must have a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) or equivalent legal qualification and be a member in good standing of a Canadian provincial or territorial law society. A Master's degree in Law, Public Administration, or a related field is advantageous. Professional development is ongoing and includes specialized training in parliamentary procedure, government legislation, and defence policy frameworks. DND provides continuous learning opportunities through the Canadian Forces College, Treasury Board learning programs, and external professional development in legislative drafting and statutory interpretation. Many Directors pursue professional certifications in governance or project management to enhance their leadership capabilities. Experience in government law, constitutional law, or defence-related legal matters is valued and often developed through prior roles within the federal public service.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Director-level position typically follows several pathways within the federal public service. Most candidates advance through merit-based internal competitions after demonstrating strong performance in mid-level legal or legislative roles, such as Senior Legal Counsel or Manager of Legislative Services. External candidates with equivalent experience in law and government may also be recruited through public competitions. The Government of Canada's lateral move process allows experienced legal professionals from other federal departments or private practice to transition into DND roles at equivalent levels. Some candidates enter through the Canadian Armed Forces Legal Officer (JAG) stream and transition to civilian leadership roles. Student recruitment programs and articling positions provide entry points for recent law graduates interested in building a federal public service career in defence and security law.
Part-Time Options
While Director-level positions are typically full-time due to their strategic leadership nature and operational demands, the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of work-life balance. Many Directors access flexible work arrangements such as modified work schedules or compressed work weeks to accommodate personal circumstances. Remote work options have expanded across the federal public service, and some duties associated with this role—particularly policy analysis, research, and stakeholder consultation—can be performed from approved remote locations. Telework arrangements are subject to operational requirements and approval by senior management. Part-time or job-share opportunities at the Director level are rare but may be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on departmental needs and business continuity. All accommodations are discussed and formalized through discussion with your manager and Human Resources.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
