As a Director - Writing and Editing, you lead a team of professional writers and editors in the Department of National Defence. You are responsible for developing and implementing communication strategies that inform both internal and external audiences about DND operations, policies, and initiatives. Your work directly supports the Department's mission by ensuring clear, accurate, and compelling messaging across all platforms and media. You manage budgets, oversee project timelines, and mentor staff while maintaining the highest standards of written communication. This role requires strategic thinking, strong leadership skills, and a deep understanding of government communications principles. Directors work in a dynamic environment where priorities can shift rapidly based on operational needs and public interest. You collaborate with senior leadership, other government departments, and external stakeholders to deliver communications that matter.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of writing and editing services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the writing and editing 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
You must have strong credentials in writing, editing, communications, or a related field, typically demonstrated through a post-secondary degree in English, Communications, Journalism, or equivalent professional experience. Many successful candidates hold a bachelor's degree and have 10+ years of progressive experience in writing and editing roles. Professional certifications from organizations such as Editors Canada or equivalent are valued but not always required. Throughout your career, the DND offers ongoing professional development through the Canadian Armed Forces Learning System, including leadership programs, project management training, and specialized communications courses. You are encouraged to maintain current knowledge of government communication standards, accessibility requirements (including AODA compliance), and digital media best practices. Mentoring from experienced managers and participation in interdepartmental working groups further enhance your expertise.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways within the federal Public Service. The most common route is through open competitions for Director - Writing and Editing positions advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank and DND careers portal. Qualified candidates with substantial experience may also be selected through departmental hiring pools or during strategic recruitment initiatives. If you are already working in the Public Service as a Senior Writer or Editor, you may transition laterally or through internal promotion competitions. Some candidates enter at lower classification levels (such as Senior Editor or Editor) and advance to Director through merit-based competitions. DND occasionally recruits from outside government, and equivalent private sector or non-profit writing and editing experience is recognized. Bilingualism (English and French) is often required or preferred depending on the specific position and organizational needs.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Director - Writing and Editing roles, depending on operational requirements and management approval. While the Director position is typically full-time, some positions may offer flextime options allowing adjusted start and end times to maintain a 37.5-hour work week. Remote work arrangements have become more common in DND and may be negotiated based on the nature of the work and departmental policies. Given the managerial responsibilities of this role, full-time presence may be expected during certain periods, particularly during major communications campaigns or when supporting critical Defence initiatives. Telework is generally possible for portions of the week, allowing you to work from approved locations while maintaining team leadership and stakeholder engagement. All arrangements must be discussed and approved by your manager and must align with DND's current hybrid and flexible work directives.
