As a Director General for Awards and Recognition, you will lead the strategic development and delivery of a comprehensive awards and recognition program for the Department of National Defence. In this executive-level role, you will be responsible for designing policies, frameworks, and processes that recognize and celebrate the achievements of military personnel and civilian employees. You will work at the highest levels of the organization, collaborating with senior leadership to ensure that recognition programs align with Defence values and contribute to a positive organizational culture.
Your responsibilities will include overseeing the administration of various awards and commendations, developing recognition strategies, managing budgets and resources, and ensuring compliance with Treasury Board and Government of Canada guidelines. You will lead a team of specialists and coordinators who support the delivery of these programs across the organization. This role requires strong strategic thinking, excellent communication skills, and a deep understanding of human resources management principles and federal government operations.
You will work in a professional office environment at National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa, with potential for travel to military bases and civilian workplaces across Canada. This position offers opportunities to make a meaningful impact on organizational morale and employee engagement while representing the Department at public and ceremonial events.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver awards and recognition services to managers and employees, Advise on HR policies, procedures, and best practices, Process HR transactions and maintain accurate records, Support organizational HR initiatives and programs
Required Skills
HR policy interpretation, Interpersonal skills, Staffing and classification, Conflict resolution, Labour relations knowledge, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving
Typical Education
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
Entry to this position typically requires a university degree in human resources management, public administration, business administration, or a related discipline. Many successful candidates hold a Master's degree or possess equivalent professional experience in senior human resources roles. Professional certifications such as Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) or equivalent are highly valued.
Candidates are expected to have extensive knowledge of Treasury Board policies, Government of Canada compensation and benefits frameworks, and employment standards. Professional development opportunities in this role include advanced executive training programs offered through the Canada School of Public Service, specialized workshops in recognition program management, and participation in professional human resources associations. You will also have access to executive coaching and leadership development programs to enhance your strategic management capabilities.
Entry Plans
Entry to the Director General level in the Public Service occurs through competitive recruitment processes managed by the Treasury Board Secretariat and the Department of National Defence. These positions are typically advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website and filled through executive appointment processes that may include competitions or merit-based selections from approved pools.
Most candidates reach this level after progressing through mid and senior-level human resources management positions within the federal government. Common pathways include roles as Senior HR Advisor, Manager of HR Programs, or Executive Director in human resources functions. The Public Service Commission may maintain pools of qualified candidates for executive positions. Lateral moves from other federal departments with comparable human resources management experience are also considered. Candidates must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents and possess a valid security clearance. Previous experience in military or defence-related human resources is an asset but not always required.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions in the federal Public Service are typically full-time, permanent positions due to the strategic and operational responsibilities involved. However, the Department of National Defence supports flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible. Depending on departmental requirements, some flexibility in work location may be negotiated, with options for hybrid work arrangements that combine time at headquarters with remote work.
Given the executive nature of this role, candidates should expect to work standard full-time hours with occasional requirements for evening or weekend work related to ceremonial events, awards presentations, and other recognition activities. The position may require travel to military installations and other locations across Canada. Part-time or job-sharing arrangements at the Director General level are rarely available due to the continuity and strategic oversight required, but discussions about flexible work options can occur during the appointment process based on individual circumstances and operational needs.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
