As a Director General in Commerce, Retail Services and Insurance within the Department of National Defence, you will provide strategic leadership and oversight of commercial operations, retail services, and insurance programs that support the Canadian Armed Forces and defence operations. In this executive role, you lead teams responsible for managing procurement activities, retail operations on military bases, and insurance services that ensure the CAF has the necessary supplies and services to maintain operational readiness. You will work at the highest levels of the organization, reporting to senior defence leadership and collaborating with other government departments, private sector partners, and international defence allies. Your decisions directly impact how effectively the CAF can sustain its personnel and operations across Canada and around the world.
Key Responsibilities
Perform general commerce, retail services and insurance duties within the commerce, retail services and insurance function, Prepare reports and documentation as required, Collaborate with team members and stakeholders, Maintain records and ensure compliance with relevant policies
Required Skills
Client service, Business acumen, Negotiation, Process management, Communication, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving
Typical Education
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
Candidates for this position typically hold a bachelor's degree in commerce, business administration, supply chain management, or a related field. An MBA or equivalent advanced business qualification is highly valued. You will need professional certifications relevant to commerce or supply chain management, such as APICS, CSCP, or similar credentials. Extensive experience in commercial operations, procurement, or retail management within a large organization is essential. Upon appointment, you will participate in Government of Canada executive development programs, specialized training in defence procurement and policy, and leadership development aligned with the Clerk of the Privy Council's leadership competency framework. Ongoing professional development includes participation in senior management forums, strategic planning initiatives, and access to learning opportunities through the Canada School of Public Service.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Director General position typically occurs through a formal public service competition open to Canadian citizens. Candidates usually come from within the public service through promotion from senior manager or executive positions, or from the private sector with demonstrated expertise in commerce, retail, or insurance operations. You may enter through a departmental competition specific to DND or through a Government of Canada-wide executive recruitment process. Some candidates advance through the Public Service Executive Development Program or similar talent management initiatives. Lateral moves from other federal departments with equivalent experience in commerce or supply chain management are also considered. The competition process includes a detailed application, technical evaluation, and executive-level interviews assessing strategic thinking, financial acumen, and leadership capability.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time, as the executive nature of the role requires consistent presence for strategic decision-making, stakeholder engagement, and organizational leadership. However, flexible work arrangements may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis within the constraints of operational requirements and executive responsibilities. Remote work options are available for specific tasks such as strategic planning or policy development, though regular presence at DND headquarters in Ottawa or your assigned location is expected. The role may require occasional travel to military bases, regional offices, or government facilities across Canada and, less frequently, internationally for defence partnerships and procurement activities. Executives in this position are expected to maintain availability for emerging operational needs and senior management commitments.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
