As a Director General of Academic Administration, you provide strategic leadership and executive direction to academic institutions or educational divisions within the Department of National Defence. You are responsible for overseeing the management, coordination, and delivery of academic programs, institutional policies, and educational services that support defence and security objectives. This senior executive role involves setting organizational vision, managing large teams, allocating resources, and ensuring alignment with government priorities and Treasury Board directives.
Your responsibilities include developing and implementing academic strategies, managing institutional budgets, overseeing program quality and accreditation, supervising senior staff, and representing your organization to external stakeholders including other government departments, educational institutions, and international partners. You work at the strategic level, balancing operational excellence with long-term institutional development.
You work in a dynamic environment that combines academic excellence with military and government values. You collaborate with senior military leadership, civilian executives, and academic professionals. Your work environment is primarily office-based, though you may travel to other Defence institutions, partner universities, and government centres to conduct official business and represent DND at conferences or strategic meetings.
Key Responsibilities
Perform academic administration duties within the education function, Prepare reports and documentation as required, Collaborate with team members and stakeholders, Maintain records and ensure compliance with relevant policies
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
You typically hold a master's degree in a relevant field such as education, business administration, public administration, or a specialized academic discipline. Many candidates have doctoral degrees (Ph.D. or equivalent). You must have extensive experience in educational administration, institutional management, or senior leadership roles—typically 15+ years of progressive career development. Professional certifications in project management, financial management, or educational leadership are valued. As a Director General, you are expected to participate in ongoing executive development programs offered by the Canada School of Public Service, including strategic management, change leadership, and government priorities training. You must maintain knowledge of current educational policy, accreditation standards, and federal government governance frameworks. Many incumbents pursue memberships in professional associations related to education administration or their academic discipline.
Entry Plans
Entry to Director General positions in the Public Service typically occurs through competitive recruitment processes run by the Public Service Commission. These competitions are advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website and target candidates with demonstrated executive experience. You may enter through lateral movement from other senior positions within DND or other government departments. Some candidates progress through the ranks within academic institutions, moving from middle management roles (such as Manager or Director level) to Director General positions as opportunities arise. The Public Service may also conduct talent pools or succession planning initiatives to identify and develop high-potential managers for future executive roles. Given the specialized nature of academic administration, competitions may be open to external candidates with relevant institutional management experience, including those from post-secondary institutions outside government. Previous experience in a related Public Service classification level (such as EC or PM groups at senior levels) can facilitate transition to the Director General position.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time, permanent positions due to the strategic and executive nature of the role. However, the Government of Canada recognizes work-life balance for all employees. Flexible work arrangements may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis with your deputy head or supervisor, though the executive demands of the position may limit flexibility. Remote work options may be available for specific duties or during periods when institutional requirements permit, though you are expected to be present for key leadership meetings, stakeholder engagements, and institutional events. Part-time conversion to this level is not standard practice, as the position requires consistent executive presence and accountability. If you require accommodations due to medical or personal circumstances, Human Resources can discuss options within the constraints of the role's operational needs. Telework and flexible scheduling are evaluated based on business requirements and organizational needs.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
