As a Director General of Human Resources Management, you will lead strategic human resources initiatives across a large organization or multiple departments within the Department of National Defence. In this executive role, you are responsible for developing and implementing HR policies, programs, and services that support organizational objectives and enable the recruitment, development, and retention of talented employees. You will provide senior-level advice to executives and senior management on human resources matters, workforce planning, labour relations, and people management strategies.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include overseeing multiple HR functions such as recruitment and staffing, employee relations, compensation and benefits, organizational development, and compliance with federal legislation. You will manage a substantial budget and lead a team of HR professionals, ensuring they have the tools and guidance needed to deliver quality services. You will also represent HR at the executive table, contributing to corporate decision-making and helping shape the organization's culture and strategic direction.
This role operates in a complex, dynamic environment where you must balance organizational needs with employee expectations and federal legislative requirements. You will work with Treasury Board, other government departments, and internal stakeholders to ensure DND remains an employer of choice while maintaining operational effectiveness and fiscal responsibility.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver general human resources 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
Candidates typically possess a master's degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related discipline. A bachelor's degree combined with professional HR certification and substantial relevant experience may be considered. Professional credentials such as Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) or similar designations are highly valued.
You will need demonstrated expertise in federal human resources legislation, including the Public Service Labour Relations Act, the Canadian Human Rights Act, and Treasury Board policies and directives. Understanding of DND's unique operational context, including military culture and defence-specific HR challenges, is important. Continued professional development in areas such as strategic HR planning, organizational change management, labour relations, and equity and inclusion initiatives is expected. Many Director Generals maintain memberships in professional associations such as the Canadian Council of Human Resources Associations and pursue ongoing learning through conferences, seminars, and specialized training programs.
Entry Plans
Entry to this senior executive position typically occurs through one of several pathways in the federal Public Service. Most candidates progress through competitive staffing processes after demonstrating success in progressively more senior HR roles, such as Manager or Director-level positions within DND or other federal organizations. Treasury Board conducts executive-level competitions to fill Director General positions, and candidates must meet rigorous criteria demonstrating strategic leadership capability, executive presence, and proven results at senior levels.
You may enter this career track as an HR professional at the PM (Personnel Management) or PE (Personnel and Industrial Relations) classification level and advance through merit-based competitions and demonstrated performance. Lateral moves from other government departments or the private sector are possible for candidates with equivalent executive experience, though federal HR expertise is essential. Some candidates transition from military service into civilian HR leadership roles, leveraging their understanding of defence culture and operations. Student or graduate recruitment programs in human resources can provide entry points at junior professional levels, from which you can develop toward executive positions over time.
Part-Time Options
Part-time arrangements at the Director General level are uncommon due to the strategic and continuous nature of executive responsibilities. However, flexible work options such as telework (working remotely) and flexible hours may be available by mutual agreement with your Deputy Minister or senior leadership, depending on operational requirements and organizational policies.
While this is a full-time executive commitment, DND and the federal Public Service are increasingly supportive of work-life balance initiatives for all employees, including senior managers. Discussions about flexible arrangements should occur during the staffing process or following appointment. Any flexible work arrangement at this level must align with organizational needs and executive responsibilities, including attendance at meetings, strategic planning sessions, and stakeholder engagement that may require in-person presence at DND headquarters or other locations.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
