As a Director General of Facilities Management, you will lead and oversee the strategic direction of real property management operations across Department of National Defence facilities. This executive-level position involves managing large, complex portfolios of military and civilian buildings, infrastructure, and support services. You will be responsible for developing and implementing policies, standards, and procedures that ensure facilities meet operational requirements while optimizing costs and maintaining the highest standards of safety and sustainability.
In this role, you will direct teams of professionals including engineers, architects, planners, and facility managers. Your responsibilities include capital planning, asset lifecycle management, maintenance operations, environmental compliance, and real property acquisition and disposal. You will work collaboratively with senior leadership across DND and other government departments to align facilities management with defence capabilities and strategic priorities.
You will operate in a dynamic, mission-critical environment where facilities directly support Canada's defence operations. The work involves managing substantial budgets, navigating complex regulatory requirements, and addressing urgent operational needs while planning for long-term infrastructure sustainability. This is a position of significant responsibility where your decisions impact military readiness and the wellbeing of personnel across the country.
Key Responsibilities
Manage facilities management activities for government real property, Coordinate maintenance, repairs, and capital projects, Ensure compliance with building codes and accessibility standards, Maintain property records and asset inventories
Required Skills
Property management, Building systems knowledge, Contract administration, Project coordination, Regulatory compliance, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving
Typical Education
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
Candidates typically hold a bachelor's degree in engineering, architecture, business administration, or a related discipline. Many successful leaders in this field possess advanced degrees such as a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) or Master's in Public Administration (MPA). Professional certifications such as Professional Engineer (P.Eng.), Certified Facilities Manager (CFM), Project Management Professional (PMP), or LEED accreditation are highly valued.
The Government of Canada provides extensive professional development opportunities including leadership programs through the Canada School of Public Service, executive coaching, and specialized training in real property management, financial stewardship, and change management. You will be expected to maintain current knowledge of emerging facilities management technologies, sustainability practices, and government contracting procedures. Continuous learning in areas such as capital asset management, risk management, and stakeholder engagement is essential for success at the executive level.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Director General position typically occurs through open competitive processes advertised on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca). Candidates usually progress to this level after gaining experience in progressively senior facilities management roles within the federal Public Service, such as Manager or Senior Manager positions.
Common pathways include lateral moves from other government departments with facilities or real property portfolios, or advancement through DND's own facilities management career stream. Some candidates may transition from the private sector, bringing relevant experience in large-scale facilities operations, capital project management, or strategic infrastructure planning. Selection is based on demonstrated competency in executive leadership, financial management, strategic planning, and the ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships.
The appointment process includes a thorough evaluation of your qualifications, work experience, and performance in selection activities. Security clearance requirements are mandatory for all DND civilian positions. While there are no specific student recruitment programs that lead directly to Director General positions, the Public Service offers various entry-level and developmental programs that can launch a career trajectory toward senior management roles.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time, permanent roles due to the strategic and executive nature of the responsibilities. However, the Government of Canada is committed to supporting work-life balance and offers flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible. This may include flexible hours, compressed work weeks, or hybrid work schedules combining office and remote work, subject to approval by your manager and organizational requirements.
Given the strategic decision-making responsibilities and need for regular engagement with senior leadership and operational stakeholders, remote work may be limited. However, many administrative and planning tasks can be performed remotely. The extent of flexibility will depend on DND's operational needs and the specific requirements of your facilities management portfolio. You are encouraged to discuss accommodation options during the hiring process to understand what arrangements may be available for this particular position.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
