As a Director General in Conflict Management, you will provide strategic leadership and direction for human resources initiatives focused on conflict resolution, workplace mediation, and dispute management across Department of National Defence operations. You will oversee the development and implementation of comprehensive conflict management policies, procedures, and programs that support a healthy, inclusive workplace culture. This role reports to senior departmental leadership and collaborates with other government institutions to advance best practices in workplace conflict resolution.
Your responsibilities include directing teams of conflict management professionals, labour relations specialists, and HR advisors who work to prevent, manage, and resolve workplace conflicts at all organizational levels. You will ensure compliance with the Canadian Human Rights Act, the Public Service Labour Relations Act, and Treasury Board policies while advocating for solutions that balance organizational needs with employee well-being. You will also represent the Department in dealings with the Public Service Labour Relations and Employment Board, Treasury Board, and external stakeholder organizations.
Working in this role means engaging with complex, sensitive issues requiring sound judgment, emotional intelligence, and strong ethical principles. You will operate in a dynamic environment where your decisions impact organizational culture, employee morale, and operational effectiveness across Canada's military and civilian workforce.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver conflict management 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
To qualify for this position, you typically need a bachelor's degree from a recognized university. Many successful candidates hold advanced degrees in human resources management, labour relations, organizational psychology, business administration, or law. Professional certifications in conflict resolution, mediation, or labour relations are highly valued.
Professional development is continuous at this level. The Public Service offers executive development programs through the Canada School of Public Service, including courses in strategic leadership, change management, and public sector governance. Many Director Generals pursue credentials through organizations like the International Association for Conflict Management or the Mediation and Arbitration Institute of Canada. You will also benefit from peer learning networks, executive coaching, and participation in interdepartmental working groups focused on emerging HR challenges.
Entry Plans
Entry to this position typically occurs through a Public Service Commission competition open to current federal public servants and, in some cases, to the general public. Candidates usually progress through lower-level conflict management or human resources positions before reaching the Director General level—such roles as Conflict Management Advisor, Manager of Conflict Management Services, or Director of Workplace Relations.
Internal mobility is common in the federal Public Service. You may enter conflict management work at the AS (Administrative Services), HR (Human Resources), or LS (Labour and Employee Relations) classification levels and advance through demonstrated performance, expanded responsibilities, and successful competition results. The Department of National Defence also participates in interdepartmental mobility agreements, allowing experienced HR professionals from other government institutions to transition into DND roles.
Some candidates enter the federal Public Service through the Federal Student Work Experience Program or the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign and develop their careers over time. Others transition laterally from private sector conflict management, organizational development, or labour relations roles, competing for positions at the appropriate level based on their experience and qualifications.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time, permanent roles requiring your commitment to strategic leadership responsibilities and senior-level decision making. However, the federal Public Service is increasingly accommodating flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible.
Remote and hybrid work options may be available depending on departmental priorities and the nature of your duties. Many conflict management activities—such as mediation, coaching, and policy development—can be conducted remotely or in hybrid models. You would discuss flexible work arrangements with your manager during the hiring process and work collaboratively to balance operational requirements with work-life flexibility.
As a senior leader, you may also have access to programs such as leave without pay for personal development, sabbaticals, or other life accommodations governed by Treasury Board policies. The Public Service recognizes that supporting employee well-being at all levels strengthens organizational performance and culture.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
