Government of Canada / Gouvernement du Canada

Director General - Information Management Policy and Governance

NOC 12 Information Management Policy and Governance Director General, Executive Director or equivalent Non-Digital
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Overview

As a Director General of Information Management Policy and Governance, you will lead the development and implementation of strategic information management policies and governance frameworks across the Department of National Defence. You will provide executive leadership on how the organization manages, protects, and leverages information as a critical asset. Your role involves setting direction for information management practices, ensuring compliance with federal legislation and regulations, and supporting senior leadership in making informed decisions about information management investments and priorities. Your responsibilities include developing comprehensive policies and standards, overseeing governance structures and committees, managing risk related to information management, and collaborating with other government departments and agencies. You will direct teams of professionals in areas such as records management, information security, access to information, and data management. This position requires you to balance organizational needs with legal obligations, emerging technologies, and evolving best practices in information management. You will work in a dynamic environment where information management is increasingly central to military operations and departmental effectiveness. You will engage with stakeholders at all levels, from frontline personnel to the Deputy Minister, and represent DND in government-wide information management initiatives. The work is intellectually demanding and requires strong judgment, communication skills, and the ability to navigate complex organizational and regulatory landscapes.

Key Responsibilities

Perform information management policy and governance 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

Candidates typically hold a bachelor's degree from a recognized university. Common fields of study include information management, information science, library science, business administration, public administration, or related disciplines. Some candidates may have degrees in law, given the regulatory compliance aspects of the role. Certifications and professional development are valued, including those offered by organizations such as the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA), the Institute of Corporate Directors, or relevant information management and governance bodies. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge of Treasury Board policies, the Access to Information Act, the Privacy Act, and other relevant federal legislation. Once hired, you will have access to Government of Canada learning resources, including management development programs, executive coaching, and specialized training in areas such as information security, records management, and strategic planning. Participation in professional associations and attendance at relevant conferences is typically supported to maintain current knowledge in the field.

Entry Plans

Entry to this senior executive position occurs through formal federal Public Service staffing processes. Most commonly, this involves a public competition open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and others entitled to work in Canada. Candidates may be internal DND employees, employees from other federal departments, or external candidates with relevant experience. At this executive level, you may enter through several pathways: directly at the Director General level if you have extensive senior management and information management experience, or through a competitive process for the Executive Director level with the possibility of advancement. Some candidates move laterally from related senior management roles in other departments or agencies where they have demonstrated comparable leadership experience. The Public Service Commission oversees these competitions to ensure fairness and merit-based selection. Candidates must meet Treasury Board requirements for executive positions, which include demonstrated leadership competencies, strategic thinking ability, and relevant subject matter expertise. Preference may be given to candidates with prior federal government experience, though this is not mandatory.

Part-Time Options

Director General positions are designated as full-time roles and are not typically available on a part-time basis due to the senior leadership and executive decision-making responsibilities required. However, the Government of Canada supports flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible. Depending on departmental needs and the specific role, some flexibility in work location and schedule may be negotiated, such as hybrid work combining office and remote work days. Remote work options may be available for specific tasks and project work, though the position requires regular in-person presence for meetings, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership. Any flexible work arrangements would be discussed during the hiring process and formalized through a written agreement. Candidates are encouraged to discuss their flexibility needs with the hiring manager, as accommodations are considered within the context of operational requirements and the position's leadership demands.