As a Director of Sports, you will lead and manage sports programs and services that support the health, wellness, and morale of military personnel and their families across Department of National Defence (DND) installations. In this director-level role, you are responsible for developing strategic sport initiatives, overseeing program delivery, managing budgets, and ensuring alignment with DND wellness objectives. You will work in a dynamic environment that values fitness, teamwork, and community engagement, directly contributing to the operational readiness and quality of life of Canadian Armed Forces members. Your work spans multiple locations and involves collaboration with military leadership, civilian staff, sports organizations, and community partners to deliver inclusive, high-quality athletic programming.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of sports services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the sports team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Research methodology, Analytical thinking, Written communication, Policy analysis, Critical reasoning, 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 sports management, kinesiology, recreation management, business administration, or a related field. Many successful candidates hold certifications from recognized sports management or coaching associations, and some may have completed specialized training through Parks Canada, provincial sports authorities, or international sports organizations. Once hired, you will have access to Government of Canada professional development programs, leadership training courses, and opportunities to pursue advanced certifications in sports administration, project management, or strategic planning. DND also supports ongoing education and may sponsor courses related to military culture, Defence policy, and public sector management.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways in the federal Public Service. The primary route is through advertised competitions for Director-level positions within DND or other government departments. Some candidates transition laterally from related roles in sports, recreation, or program management within government or the military. The Public Service Commission (PSC) periodically opens recruitment pools for director-level positions across the federal government. Depending on your background, you may also enter through bridging programs if you have prior experience in sports management or athletic administration. Networking with DND Human Resources advisors and monitoring the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.canada.ca) will keep you informed of upcoming opportunities.
Part-Time Options
While Director-level positions are typically full-time permanent roles, the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of work-life balance. Depending on operational requirements and management approval, flexible work arrangements such as telework for administrative tasks, flexible hours, and compressed work weeks may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis. Part-time directorial roles are rare in the federal Public Service due to the leadership and strategic responsibilities involved; however, some administrative or program coordination positions within sports services may offer part-time opportunities. During recruitment, you can discuss flexible work options with your hiring manager to determine what arrangements are feasible for the specific position.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
