As a Director General of Learning and Development, you will lead the strategic direction and delivery of learning and development programs across the Department of National Defence. This executive-level position involves setting organizational learning priorities, overseeing curriculum development, managing training budgets, and ensuring that learning initiatives align with departmental and Government of Canada objectives. You will be responsible for building and managing a team of learning professionals, including instructional designers, subject matter experts, and training coordinators.
In this role, you will develop and implement comprehensive learning strategies that support the professional development of both military and civilian personnel. Your responsibilities include assessing organizational learning needs, evaluating training effectiveness, adopting emerging learning technologies, and ensuring training programs meet quality standards and accessibility requirements. You will collaborate with senior leadership, other government departments, and external stakeholders to identify best practices and innovative approaches to learning delivery.
You will work in a dynamic, mission-focused environment where learning and development directly supports national defence capabilities. This position requires strong strategic thinking, financial management skills, and the ability to lead change in a complex organizational structure. You will balance competing priorities while maintaining a focus on continuous improvement and measurable results.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver learning and development 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 for this position typically hold a bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Education, Human Resources Management, Organizational Development, Business Administration, or a related discipline. A master's degree in Learning and Development, Adult Education, Organizational Psychology, or Business Administration is highly valued and may be required or preferred depending on the specific competition.
Key certifications and credentials that strengthen candidacy include: Professional in Learning and Development (PLD) or similar certifications from recognized organizations; training in instructional design methodologies; familiarity with learning management systems (LMS); and knowledge of federal government training standards and Treasury Board policies on learning and development.
Professional development opportunities available within this role include executive coaching, advanced leadership programs through the Canada School of Public Service, specialized training in emerging learning technologies such as artificial intelligence and virtual/augmented reality, and participation in professional associations such as the Canadian Association for Professional Learning and Development or similar bodies. Many executives also pursue additional qualifications in change management, strategic planning, and data analytics to enhance their effectiveness in this role.
Entry Plans
Entry into a Director General position in Learning and Development typically requires significant prior experience in learning and development, human resources management, or related fields within the federal Public Service or other large organizations. The primary entry method is through external advertised competitions or executive talent pools managed by the Treasury Board Secretariat or the Department of National Defence.
Candidates usually progress to this level through a combination of: successful completion of multiple learning and development positions at the Program Manager or Senior Advisor level; demonstrated success leading teams and managing substantial budgets; a track record of implementing strategic initiatives; and endorsement through the executive selection process. Some candidates may transition laterally from related human resources management roles, provided they possess the necessary learning and development expertise and strategic experience.
The federal Public Service also maintains executive development programs and talent management initiatives that identify high-potential managers for accelerated advancement into senior roles. Interested candidates should regularly monitor the Public Service Commission (PSC) website, the Government of Canada Jobs website, and DND's internal job postings for relevant competitions and opportunities. Networking with DND Human Resources leadership and participating in professional development communities can also increase visibility for executive opportunities.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time, permanent roles due to the strategic and leadership-intensive nature of the work. However, the Department of National Defence and the federal Public Service support flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible.
Due to the executive responsibilities and need for strategic oversight, part-time or job-sharing arrangements for this position are uncommon and would require exceptional circumstances and approval from senior departmental leadership. Remote work may be available on a flexible basis, particularly for administrative and planning tasks, though in-person presence is expected for meetings, team leadership, and stakeholder engagement.
Candidates interested in flexibility should discuss specific accommodations during the recruitment process. The federal Public Service is committed to supporting work-life balance, and accommodations such as flexible core hours, telework arrangements, and leaves of absence (parental, compassionate care, etc.) are available in accordance with Treasury Board policies and collective agreements. As a member of the executive cadre, you would also have access to executive benefits and professional development funding that can support work-life integration.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
