As a Director General in Internal Audit, you lead the internal audit function within the Department of National Defence, providing independent and objective assurance to senior management and the Board of Management. You oversee the development and execution of a comprehensive audit plan that evaluates the effectiveness of governance, risk management, and control frameworks across the organization. This executive-level role combines strategic planning with hands-on audit expertise, requiring you to communicate complex audit findings to senior leadership and the Minister's office.
Your responsibilities include managing a team of audit professionals, directing audit engagements on critical departmental operations, and ensuring compliance with Treasury Board policies and professional audit standards. You establish audit priorities aligned with departmental risk profiles, mentor audit staff in professional development, and maintain the independence and credibility of the internal audit function. You also represent Internal Audit at executive forums, contribute to enterprise risk management initiatives, and ensure audit resources are allocated effectively.
You work in a fast-paced, security-conscious environment at the heart of Canada's defence organization. Your work directly influences decision-making at the highest levels of government and contributes to the responsible stewardship of public resources. This role offers the opportunity to shape governance practices across a large, complex organization while leading a professional team committed to organizational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct internal audit activities per professional standards, Collect and analyze evidence to support findings, Prepare reports and recommendations for management, Monitor implementation of action plans
Required Skills
Analytical skills, Risk assessment, Report writing, Professional skepticism, Data analysis, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving
Typical Education
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
To succeed as a Director General in Internal Audit, you typically require a university degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field. Most candidates hold professional accounting designations such as CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant), CA (Chartered Accountant), or CMA (Certified Management Accountant). Many also hold certifications in internal audit, such as CIA (Certified Internal Auditor) or CCSA (Certified Control Self-Assessment), which are highly valued in this career.
Extensive experience in audit, accounting, or financial management within the public or private sector is essential, generally 15 or more years with progressive responsibility in audit leadership roles. You should demonstrate strong knowledge of Treasury Board policies, government financial management, and the Treasury Board Integrated Risk Management Framework. The Government of Canada supports continuous professional development through memberships in professional bodies like The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA Canada), the CPA Professional Education Programs, and advanced management training offered through the Canada School of the Public Service. Leadership development programs and executive coaching are available to help you succeed at the Director General level.
Entry Plans
Entry to this career typically occurs through a competitive public service appointment process managed by the Public Service Commission (PSC). Most candidates enter at the Executive (EX) level through a formal competition that assesses executive competencies, audit expertise, and leadership capability. Successful candidates usually have progressed through mid-level audit positions (such as Audit Manager or Senior Auditor roles at the PM or AS classification levels) and have demonstrated sustained excellence in audit and financial management.
Lateral moves from other Government of Canada departments with equivalent audit, financial management, or internal control experience are possible and encouraged. Some candidates transition from external audit roles in the Office of the Auditor General or the private sector audit firms, bringing fresh perspectives to departmental audit functions. The Canadian Armed Forces and DND may also conduct targeted recruitment for specialized audit competencies through the PSC's recruitment services. Appointment to this role typically requires security clearance at the Top Secret level and passing a reliability check. Once you have entered the audit career stream at a mid-level, advancement to Director General is based on demonstrated performance, professional designations, executive competencies, and successful competition for available positions.
Part-Time Options
The Director General position is typically a full-time, permanent appointment due to the strategic and continuous nature of audit leadership responsibilities. However, the Government of Canada recognizes the importance of work-life balance and supports flexible working arrangements where operationally feasible.
Depending on departmental needs and individual circumstances, you may be able to negotiate flexible work schedules, compressed work weeks, or telework arrangements for a portion of your time. Remote work options have expanded since 2020, and many audit planning and reporting activities can be conducted from home. However, given the executive responsibilities and the need to be present for key governance meetings, strategic briefings, and team leadership activities, a significant portion of your time will likely be on-site at DND headquarters in Ottawa or your assigned location.
Leave entitlements for executive-level employees are generous, including four weeks of annual vacation, various leave provisions (parental, bereavement, sick leave), and access to the Public Service Health Care Plan. Employees can also benefit from the Workplace Wellness Program, Employee Assistance Program, and other supports that contribute to flexible and healthy work arrangements. We encourage you to discuss specific flexibility needs during the recruitment process to determine what arrangements may be available within the requirements of the role.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
