As a Director General of Communications, you lead strategic communications initiatives across the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces. In this executive role, you provide vision and direction for communications programs, policies, and services that support organizational objectives and maintain transparent dialogue with the public, media, and stakeholders. You oversee a team of communications professionals and manage significant budgets while ensuring alignment with Government of Canada priorities and values.
Your responsibilities include developing comprehensive communications strategies, managing media relations and public information campaigns, overseeing internal communications and employee engagement, and ensuring consistent messaging across multiple platforms. You advise senior leadership on communications implications of policy decisions, represent the department at national and international forums, and champion excellence in communications practices. You also ensure compliance with Treasury Board policies, Access to Information and Privacy requirements, and Treasury Board communications standards.
You work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where you balance competing priorities, manage crisis communications, and respond to emerging issues. The role requires strong judgment, strategic thinking, and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders across government, media, industry, and the public.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and deliver general communications products and services, Draft content for various channels and audiences, Coordinate with stakeholders on messaging and approvals, Monitor and evaluate communications effectiveness
Required Skills
Writing and editing, Strategic thinking, Media relations, Digital content creation, Stakeholder engagement, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving
Typical Education
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
Successful candidates typically hold a bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, political science, public administration, or a related discipline. Some candidates may have equivalent professional experience and training in lieu of formal credentials.
Advanced education such as a master's degree in communications, public administration, business administration, or public policy is valued and common among candidates at this level. Relevant certifications from professional bodies such as the Canadian Public Relations Society, the International Association of Business Communicators, or similar organizations strengthen candidacy.
Ongoing professional development is expected and supported, including training in crisis communications, digital and social media strategy, data analytics, accessibility and inclusive communications, and emerging communication technologies. Within the Public Service, you may access formal management development programs, specialized communications courses, and executive coaching. The department encourages participation in professional associations and attendance at conferences and seminars relevant to communications leadership.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Director General position typically occurs through a competitive public service selection process. The most common pathway is lateral movement from other senior communications roles within the federal Public Service, including positions such as Executive Director of Communications or equivalent senior communications management positions in other departments.
Candidates may also transition from Director-level communications positions within DND or the CAF, demonstrating the experience and performance required for promotion to Director General. Some candidates enter through external recruitment competitions when the department seeks specialized expertise or fresh perspectives.
The Public Service Commission conducts competitions following Treasury Board guidelines and the Canadian Human Rights Act. Successful candidates must obtain security clearance (typically Secret or Top Secret depending on the posting) and pass a medical and psychological assessment. Government of Canada indeterminate appointment eligibility is required. Prior federal public service experience is strongly preferred and may be required, though some external candidates with relevant senior-level experience in communications leadership may be considered. Networking through professional associations and staying informed about public service job postings are effective strategies for learning about opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time, ongoing roles due to the strategic nature of the work, the requirement for senior leadership presence, and the need for availability to respond to emerging communications issues and crises.
Flexible work arrangements, including hybrid and remote options, may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis within operational requirements. The nature of communications leadership—involving stakeholder meetings, media engagement, and coordination with senior management—generally requires in-person presence for a significant portion of the week. However, departmental flexibility policies support remote work for specific tasks such as strategic planning, policy development, and correspondence.
While part-time or job-sharing arrangements are not typical for this executive position, employees may be eligible for unpaid leave, parental leave, and other legislated benefits. Work-life balance initiatives and flexible scheduling within the full-time context are supported by DND HR policies. Prospective candidates should discuss specific accommodation needs with the hiring manager during the selection process.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
