As a Director of Media Relations in the Department of National Defence, you will lead the strategic direction and execution of media relations activities that support DND's communications objectives. You will manage a team of media relations professionals, develop and implement media strategies, and serve as a senior advisor to department leadership on communications matters related to the media landscape. This role requires you to maintain strong relationships with journalists, media outlets, and other stakeholders while ensuring consistent, accurate messaging about defence and security issues.
Your responsibilities will include overseeing the development of media strategies and communication plans, managing day-to-day media inquiries and press operations, and ensuring coordinated responses across the department. You will also be responsible for crisis communications planning, monitoring media coverage, and providing strategic advice on emerging communications challenges. This is a leadership position that requires excellent judgment, strong communication skills, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, often high-pressure environment.
You will work within DND's communications branch, collaborating with other government departments, the Canadian Armed Forces, and external communications partners. The role involves regular interaction with senior leadership, government officials, and members of the media at all levels. You may be required to work irregular hours during crisis situations or significant news events.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of media relations services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the media relations team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Writing and editing, Strategic thinking, Media relations, Digital content creation, Stakeholder engagement, 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 be competitive for this position, you typically need a bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, political science, or a related discipline. Many successful candidates have a master's degree in communications, public administration, or a similar field.
Professional experience in media relations, public relations, strategic communications, or journalism is essential. You should demonstrate a strong track record of managing communications teams and developing media strategies. Many candidates hold professional certifications through organizations such as the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) or similar professional bodies.
The Government of Canada supports ongoing professional development. As a Director, you would have access to training in advanced leadership, strategic communications, crisis management, and government communications. Internal training programs through the Canada School of Public Service and department-specific programs help you develop expertise in defence communications, government protocols, and security matters relevant to DND.
Entry Plans
Entry to this director-level position typically occurs through competitive public service recruitment processes. The most common pathways include:
Competitive Staffing Process: The Government of Canada conducts open or limited competitions for director-level positions. You can apply directly when a position is advertised on the Government of Canada's job board (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions assess your qualifications, experience, and suitability for the role.
Lateral Movement: If you are already a public servant in the federal government, you may be able to move into this position through internal competitions or appointment processes. Your experience in other government communications roles could support a transition to this director position.
Executive Candidate List (ECL): The Treasury Board maintains an ECL for senior leadership positions. Candidates who have been assessed and placed on this list may be appointed to director-level roles more quickly than through standard competitions.
External Recruitment: Qualified candidates from outside the public service can compete for director positions. You would need to meet all eligibility requirements, which may include security clearances appropriate to the role.
Part-Time Options
Director-level positions in the Government of Canada are typically full-time permanent positions. However, flexible work arrangements may be available depending on operational requirements and individual circumstances.
Remote work options have expanded across the federal government. Depending on DND's current policies and the specific needs of the Media Relations directorate, you may be able to work remotely for a portion of your work week, though this role often requires in-person presence for meetings with senior leadership and urgent media situations.
Flexible hours may be negotiable within limits, though this position requires availability during business hours and may demand extended hours during crisis situations, significant news events, or when responding to urgent media inquiries. Specific flexible work arrangements would be discussed during the recruitment process and with your manager once appointed.
Additional benefits available to all federal public servants include paid leave (vacation, sick leave, family-related leave), a comprehensive benefits package, and access to employee assistance programs. Work-life balance initiatives and wellness programs are supported across DND to help employees manage the demands of senior leadership roles.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
