As a Director General in Audit and Evaluation, you will provide strategic leadership and executive direction to audit and evaluation functions within the Department of National Defence. You will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive audit and evaluation strategies that support departmental objectives, ensure accountability, and drive continuous improvement across the organization. This role involves overseeing multiple audit and evaluation teams, managing significant budgets, and serving as a senior advisor to departmental leadership on risk management and organizational effectiveness.
Your responsibilities will include establishing audit and evaluation priorities, ensuring compliance with Treasury Board policies and standards, and delivering high-quality, evidence-based reports that inform decision-making at the executive level. You will lead the development of audit plans, evaluation frameworks, and risk assessments while maintaining the independence and integrity of audit and evaluation activities. This position requires extensive interaction with senior management, external auditors, and government partners to coordinate activities and share findings.
Working in this role means operating in a dynamic, complex environment where you contribute directly to strengthening departmental governance and accountability. You will manage a team of audit and evaluation professionals, foster a culture of evidence-based management, and champion best practices in the audit and evaluation field across the Defence organization.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct general audit and evaluation activities per professional standards, Collect and analyze evidence to support findings, Prepare reports and recommendations for management, Monitor implementation of action plans
Required Skills
Analytical skills, Risk assessment, Report writing, Professional skepticism, Data analysis, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving
Typical Education
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
To succeed in this role, you should have a university degree in a relevant field such as business administration, public administration, accounting, economics, or a related discipline. Professional certifications are highly valued, including the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP), or equivalent credentials in audit and evaluation.
Significant professional experience in audit, evaluation, risk management, or related governance functions is required, typically including progression through intermediate and senior audit or evaluation roles. Strong knowledge of Treasury Board policies, government accountability frameworks, and the audit and evaluation standards relevant to the federal public service is essential.
Ongoing professional development is expected in this role, including participation in executive leadership programs, advanced training in audit methodologies and evaluation practices, and continuous learning in areas such as risk management, organizational change, and data analytics. The Government of Canada supports professional development through various learning opportunities and encourages membership in professional associations such as the Institute of Internal Auditors Canada.
Entry Plans
Entry to the Director General level typically occurs through a competitive staffing process. Candidates usually advance to this level after demonstrating sustained excellence in intermediate and senior audit or evaluation positions within the federal public service or similar large, complex organizations.
Common pathways include progressing through roles such as Senior Auditor, Manager of Audit and Evaluation, or Executive positions in related governance and risk management functions. External candidates with equivalent experience in provincial or municipal governments, other federal departments, or the private sector may also be considered through open competitions.
Most appointments at this level are made through advertised competitions run by the Public Service Commission or through executive appointment processes. Candidates must demonstrate executive-level competencies, strategic thinking, and a track record of leading organizational change. Lateral moves from other government departments or organizations with comparable audit and evaluation responsibilities are also possible pathways into this role.
Part-Time Options
Full-time commitment is typically required for this executive-level position due to the strategic leadership responsibilities and the need for consistent presence in senior management meetings and decision-making forums. However, the Government of Canada remains committed to supporting work-life balance and employee wellness.
Remote work arrangements may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis, particularly for specific tasks such as report writing, analysis, and strategic planning. The nature of executive leadership—which requires regular in-person collaboration with senior departmental leadership and team management—means that some on-site presence at Defence headquarters or regional offices is generally expected.
Flexible work arrangements, such as adjusted hours or hybrid schedules, may be available depending on operational requirements and departmental needs. Employees are encouraged to discuss potential flexible work options with their manager and Human Resources, as accommodations can often be made within the constraints of executive-level responsibilities.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
