As a Director General of Business Line Support Services, you provide strategic leadership and oversight for business support functions across the Department of National Defence. In this executive role, you are responsible for directing teams that deliver critical services including human resources, finance, procurement, communications, and information management. You shape organizational policy, drive operational excellence, and ensure alignment between business support services and DND's strategic priorities.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include managing large budgets, overseeing multiple service delivery teams, developing long-term strategic plans, and serving as a subject matter expert to senior military and civilian leadership. You work collaboratively with other departments and agencies to improve service delivery across government. This role requires strong decision-making abilities, financial acumen, and the capacity to lead complex organizational change in a dynamic environment.
You work in a professional office setting at National Defence Headquarters or regional offices, though remote work options may be available. This position is part of the Executive category and carries significant responsibility for organizational performance and results.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver business line support services services supporting GC digital operations, Develop, configure, and maintain IT systems and infrastructure, Troubleshoot technical issues and provide user support, Document technical solutions and maintain system records
Required Skills
Systems administration, Programming/scripting, Network and security, Cloud technologies, ITIL/ITSM practices, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving
Typical Education
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
To qualify for this role, you typically need a university degree in business administration, public administration, finance, human resources, information technology, or a related field. Many successful candidates hold a Master's degree or MBA. You must demonstrate extensive experience in senior management, preferably with progressively larger organizational budgets and teams.
Professional certifications are valuable, such as the Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or relevant IT credentials depending on your specialization. The Government of Canada offers ongoing professional development through the Canada School of Public Service, including executive coaching, strategic leadership training, and specialized courses in government policy and management.
As you progress in this role, you may pursue additional certifications in digital transformation, change management, or governance. Continuous learning is expected at the executive level, with opportunities to engage in peer networks, interdepartmental forums, and national leadership development programs.
Entry Plans
Entry to Director General positions in the Public Service occurs through competitive staffing processes. Most candidates are promoted from Director or Executive Director levels within DND or other federal departments. The Public Service Commission posts these senior management positions publicly, and competitions typically assess your executive experience, strategic vision, financial management record, and leadership capabilities.
Some candidates enter through lateral movement from other departments with equivalent experience in large-scale service delivery or business operations. Internal development programs and talent management initiatives within DND identify high-performing managers for advancement to executive roles. If you are outside the Public Service, you may enter through open competitions, though this is less common for Director General positions. The hiring process includes interviews with senior executives, assessment of your portfolio of accomplishments, and verification of your track record managing complex organizations.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are full-time executive roles that require consistent presence and availability due to the strategic and operational responsibilities involved. Part-time arrangements are not typically available at this level. However, flexible work arrangements may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis, such as flexible hours or remote work for specific tasks, subject to operational requirements and approval by senior leadership.
Given the executive nature of the position, you are expected to maintain availability for urgent matters, executive meetings, and strategic initiatives. Work-life balance is supported through professional development opportunities, wellness programs, and mentoring available to executives through the Canada School of Public Service and DND's leadership development initiatives. Some executives arrange flexible schedules around their core responsibilities, but this must be discussed and approved during the staffing process.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
