As a Director General in Graphic Design, you will lead a strategic communications design function within the Department of National Defence. In this executive role, you are responsible for setting the vision and direction for graphic design services, managing a team of design professionals, and ensuring that visual communications align with organizational objectives and government standards. You will work at the senior management level, reporting to senior leadership and collaborating with other government departments and agencies.
Your responsibilities include overseeing the development and delivery of high-quality graphic design products, managing budgetary and human resources, ensuring compliance with Treasury Board policies and government communications guidelines, and driving continuous improvement in design practices and standards. You will provide strategic advice on visual communications matters, mentor design professionals, and represent the department in inter-departmental committees and working groups.
This role operates in a dynamic federal government environment where you will balance creative excellence with organizational priorities, work across multiple classification levels and disciplines, and contribute to the department's strategic communications objectives. You will work closely with senior management, communications teams, and stakeholders across Defence and other government institutions.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and deliver graphic design 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
To qualify for this position, you typically need a university degree in graphic design, visual communications, fine arts, or a related discipline, combined with extensive professional experience in graphic design and progressive management roles. Many successful candidates hold a master's degree in design, business administration, or communications.
Professional certifications in design software, project management (such as PMP), or change management are valued. The Government of Canada offers professional development opportunities including executive coaching, leadership training through the Canadian Centre for Management Development, and specialized courses in government communications, Treasury Board policies, and federal management practices. Continued learning in emerging design trends, accessibility standards (AODA), and digital design is expected to maintain expertise in this evolving field.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Director General level position typically occurs through advertised executive-level competitions open to Canadian citizens. The Public Service Commission posts these competitions on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and PSC website. Candidates may come from within the Public Service through lateral moves and promotions, or from outside government with equivalent experience.
Many candidates progress to Director General roles after serving as Managers or Directors in graphic design, communications, or related fields within DND or other federal departments. Some enter through the Federal Executive Development Program or similar talent management initiatives. Others transition from provincial governments, Crown corporations, or the private sector with demonstrated executive-level experience in design leadership and organizational management.
The competitive process includes submission of a detailed application, assessment of qualifications against stated requirements, potential written examinations or presentations, and interviews with senior evaluation boards. Candidates must be able to obtain or maintain a security clearance appropriate to the role.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time, permanent roles given the executive responsibilities and strategic nature of the work. However, the Government of Canada is increasingly accommodating flexible work arrangements.
Depending on operational requirements and departmental policies, some flexibility may be negotiated regarding work location (hybrid or remote arrangements for certain tasks), though executive presence and accessibility are generally expected. Part-time or job-sharing arrangements at this level are rare but may be considered on a case-by-case basis through formal requests and management approval.
Leave entitlements include annual vacation, sick leave, and family-related leave in accordance with the Treasury Board policies applicable to the executive group. Eligibility for telework and flexible hours should be discussed directly with the hiring manager and your department's human resources office, as arrangements may vary based on organizational needs and role-specific requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
