As a Director of Project Management, you lead the planning, execution, and delivery of complex projects that support Department of National Defence (DND) operations and strategic initiatives. You provide strategic direction and oversight to ensure projects meet their objectives within scope, budget, and timeline. This role involves managing teams of project managers and coordinators, establishing project management standards and governance frameworks, and reporting on project performance to senior leadership.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include developing project strategies, allocating resources, managing stakeholder relationships, and removing barriers to project success. You mentor your team, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and ensure compliance with Treasury Board and DND project management policies. You may oversee multiple concurrent projects ranging from infrastructure and technology initiatives to organizational change and capability development programs.
You work in a dynamic environment where priorities can shift based on operational needs and government direction. Your role requires strong communication skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to navigate complex organizational structures. You collaborate with colleagues across DND and other government departments, contractors, and external partners to deliver results that support Canada's defence and security.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of project management services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the project management team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Organizational skills, Written and oral communication, MS Office proficiency, Time management, Attention to detail, 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 need a bachelor's degree in business administration, project management, engineering, or a related field. Many Directors of Project Management hold a master's degree or professional designation such as the Project Management Professional (PMP) credential from the Project Management Institute, or the PRINCE2 certification.
Government of Canada positions require proficiency in English and French at specified levels; language requirements vary by position. Upon appointment, you may complete Treasury Board-approved training in federal project management methodologies, including the Project Management Body of Knowledge aligned with government standards. The DND also supports professional development through courses, conferences, and continuing education in advanced project management techniques, leadership, and emerging industry practices. Some positions may require security clearance training or specialized knowledge related to defence and security contexts.
Entry Plans
There are several pathways to become a Director of Project Management in the federal Public Service:
Public Service Competitions: The primary route is through open or merit-based competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions typically require candidates to demonstrate project management experience, leadership capability, and relevant education.
Internal Competitions and Lateral Moves: Current federal public servants may apply for internal competitions or lateral transfers within DND or other departments. Priority may be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
Student and Early-Career Programs: The Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and Post-Secondary Recruitment (PSR) program can provide pathways into the public service for recent graduates, though initial positions would be at lower classification levels with progression to Director level over time.
Successful candidates typically have 8-12 years of progressive project management and leadership experience in the public or private sector. Demonstrated experience managing large, complex projects and leading teams is essential.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work in Director-level positions is uncommon due to the strategic and continuous responsibilities required. However, flexible work arrangements may be available depending on operational needs and management approval.
Remote work options have expanded across the federal government. Depending on the specific project requirements and DND policy, some aspects of this role may be performed remotely, though regular in-person presence is typically expected for stakeholder engagement, team leadership, and operational coordination.
The DND is committed to providing reasonable accommodations and flexible arrangements where operationally feasible. Employees should discuss specific flexibility needs with their hiring manager during the recruitment process or after appointment. Work-life balance initiatives, compressed work weeks, and telework arrangements may be negotiated within the constraints of the role's requirements and collective agreement provisions.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
