As a Director of Veterinary Services in the Department of National Defence, you will provide strategic leadership and oversight of veterinary programs and services that support military operations, animal welfare, and public health. In this director-level role, you are responsible for developing policies, managing budgets, and directing a team of veterinary professionals who deliver essential services across Defence facilities and operations. Your work directly contributes to operational readiness by ensuring the health and welfare of military animals, protecting food and water safety in Defence establishments, and supporting disease prevention and control initiatives. You will work in a dynamic environment where your decisions impact both military effectiveness and the well-being of animals under Defence care. This role requires strong leadership capabilities, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of veterinary medicine within a military context.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of veterinary services services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the veterinary services team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Clinical skills, Patient/client assessment, Empathy and communication, Record-keeping, Interdisciplinary collaboration, 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 qualify for this position, you must hold a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree or equivalent from an accredited veterinary school, along with a valid veterinary license to practice in Canada. Professional certification through the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) or provincial veterinary colleges is required. Most candidates in this role possess several years of progressive veterinary experience, often including supervisory or management positions. You should have demonstrated expertise in areas such as animal health management, disease control, food safety, or military veterinary operations. The Department of National Defence provides ongoing professional development opportunities, including management training, advanced veterinary certifications, and leadership programs to support your career growth. Participation in federal government training initiatives and access to continuing education in specialized veterinary fields are available to support your professional advancement.
Entry Plans
Entry into this director-level position typically occurs through a federal Public Service staffing process. Candidates may qualify through different pathways: direct competition for the Director position if you have substantial veterinary management experience; lateral movement from other veterinary or health care management roles within DND or other federal departments; or progression from intermediate veterinary management positions (such as Senior Veterinarian or Manager - Veterinary Services) where you have demonstrated leadership capability. The Public Service Commission manages recruitment for this level, and competitions are conducted when vacancies arise. Interested candidates should monitor the Government of Canada Job Bank and DND careers website for advertised competitions. Your veterinary credentials, management experience, and demonstrated ability to lead teams and develop strategic initiatives will be key factors in your qualification.
Part-Time Options
Full-time employment is standard for director-level positions due to the strategic and operational responsibilities involved. However, the Department of National Defence supports work-life balance through flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible. Options may include flexible hours, compressed work weeks, or telework for administrative and planning work, depending on the specific duties and organizational needs. Given the managerial nature of this role, some on-site presence is typically required for team leadership, stakeholder engagement, and facility oversight. Discussions about specific flexible arrangements should occur during the hiring process and with your manager once appointed, as accommodations vary based on operational requirements and individual circumstances.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
