As a Director General - Information Management, you will lead strategic information management initiatives across Defence and Climate Change Canada (DCC). In this executive role, you oversee the development and implementation of policies, standards, and systems that ensure effective management of information assets. You provide leadership on complex information management challenges, including digital transformation, records management, access to information, and data governance. You work at the highest levels of the organization, reporting to senior executives and contributing to strategic decision-making that impacts the entire department.
Your responsibilities include directing teams of information management professionals, managing substantial budgets, and ensuring compliance with Treasury Board policies and federal legislation. You develop long-term information management strategies aligned with government priorities and departmental objectives. You collaborate with other departments, government agencies, and external partners to advance government-wide information management practices. You champion innovation in how the organization manages, protects, and leverages its information resources.
The work environment is fast-paced and dynamic, requiring you to balance strategic planning with day-to-day operational demands. You will engage with stakeholders at all levels, from frontline staff to senior government officials. This role requires sound judgment, strong communication skills, and the ability to influence across organizational boundaries. You may travel occasionally for meetings, conferences, and stakeholder engagement.
Key Responsibilities
Perform general information management activities per GC IM policies, Manage information assets through their lifecycle, Ensure compliance with access to information and privacy requirements, Support information governance and standards
Required Skills
Records management, ATIP legislation, Information governance, Classification systems, Digital literacy, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving
Typical Education
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
To succeed in this role, you typically need a university degree in a relevant field such as information management, library science, computer science, business administration, or a related discipline. Many successful candidates have master's degrees in information science, business administration (MBA), or public administration.
Professional certifications are valued, including those from recognized information management associations such as the Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS) or the Association of Canadian Archivists. You should have extensive knowledge of Treasury Board policies on information management, the Privacy Act, the Access to Information Act, and government security requirements.
Continuing professional development is expected in this role. The Government of Canada supports participation in professional development programs, conferences, and training related to information governance, digital transformation, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies. Many executives pursue specialized training in strategic leadership, change management, and executive coaching to enhance their effectiveness at the senior level.
Entry Plans
Most Director General positions in the federal Public Service are staffed through closed competitions or executive appointment processes. Candidates typically come from within the public service, having progressed through intermediate information management positions such as Manager, Senior Advisor, or Director levels.
Common entry pathways include: (1) advancing through the Information Management (IM) group after demonstrating strong performance and leadership potential in progressively senior roles; (2) lateral moves from related fields such as Communications, Information Technology, or Strategic Planning, combined with information management expertise; (3) appointment through the Public Service Commission's executive recruitment processes, which may be open to external candidates with relevant senior-level experience; (4) participation in executive development and succession planning programs that prepare high-potential managers for senior leadership roles.
To position yourself for a Director General role, you should seek opportunities to lead larger teams, manage complex projects, develop strategic plans, and build experience across multiple information management disciplines. Mentorship from senior leaders and participation in executive forums can accelerate your readiness for this level.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time roles due to the strategic and executive nature of the work. However, the Government of Canada recognizes that employees at all levels may have different needs.
Flexible work arrangements may be possible and are negotiated on a case-by-case basis, depending on operational requirements and departmental needs. This might include flexible hours, compressed work weeks, or a combination of in-office and remote work days. Remote work options have expanded across the federal public service, and some strategic work can be performed from locations other than the primary workplace.
As an executive leader, you will be expected to maintain availability for critical meetings, decision-making forums, and stakeholder engagement, which may sometimes require your physical presence in the office or travel. Any flexible arrangements would be established in consultation with your supervisor and would not compromise your ability to fulfill your executive responsibilities and lead your team effectively.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
