As a Director General of Public Opinion Research within the Department of National Defence, you will lead strategic research initiatives that shape communications and policy decisions across the organization. This executive-level position involves directing teams of researchers, analysts, and communications professionals to gather, analyze, and interpret public opinion data on defence and security matters. You will be responsible for establishing research methodologies, managing budgets, and ensuring the highest standards of analytical rigor in all projects.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include overseeing the design and execution of surveys, focus groups, and qualitative research studies; presenting findings to senior leadership and Ministers; and advising on communications strategies informed by evidence-based public sentiment analysis. You will collaborate with colleagues across DND, other government departments, and external research partners to address complex questions about public perception of defence, military operations, and national security priorities.
Working in this role means engaging with diverse stakeholders including military personnel, civilian employees, external researchers, and government decision-makers. You will operate in a dynamic environment where your research directly influences how the Department communicates with Canadians and shapes strategic direction on matters of national importance.
Key Responsibilities
Develop and deliver public opinion research products and services, Draft content for various channels and audiences, Coordinate with stakeholders on messaging and approvals, Monitor and evaluate communications effectiveness
Required Skills
Writing and editing, Strategic thinking, Media relations, Digital content creation, Stakeholder engagement, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving
Typical Education
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
To be successful in this position, you typically need a master's degree in a relevant field such as public opinion research, communications, political science, sociology, or a related discipline. Many candidates hold a PhD in these or similar fields. Strong knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, survey design, statistical analysis, and data interpretation is essential.
Professional certifications in market research, public opinion polling, or related areas are an asset. Candidates often pursue ongoing professional development through organizations such as the Professional Marketing Research Society (PMRS) or the Canadian Association for Public Opinion Research (CAPOR). Within the federal public service, you may access training in executive leadership, financial management, human resources management, and government communications. The Canada School of Public Service (CSPS) offers courses tailored to senior managers in the federal government, and departmental programs provide specialized training in DND policy, culture, and operational context.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Director General position typically occurs through a staffing competition open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and temporary residents meeting specific criteria. These competitions are conducted by the Public Service Commission (PSC) and are advertised on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca).
Most candidates enter this role after progressing through earlier levels of the public opinion research career stream, such as Research Officer, Senior Research Officer, or Manager positions. Lateral movement from related fields in communications, strategic analysis, or research within the federal public service is also common. Some candidates may transition from external research organizations, universities, or private sector research firms, though they typically compete in open competitions against internal candidates.
Experienced professionals may also enter through executive recruitment initiatives or talent pools established by DND Human Resources. Networking within government communications and research circles, maintaining awareness of advertised competitions, and developing a strong track record in public opinion research significantly enhance competitiveness for this senior role.
Part-Time Options
This Director General position is typically full-time and ongoing, reflecting the executive-level responsibilities and leadership requirements of the role. However, like most senior positions in the federal public service, flexible work arrangements may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis with your manager and departmental leadership.
Remote or hybrid work options have become increasingly available within the Government of Canada since 2020, and many research and analytical tasks can be performed effectively outside a traditional office setting. The extent of flexibility depends on DND's operational needs, your specific team structure, and organizational priorities at the time. As an executive leader, you would be expected to maintain regular presence for key meetings, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership activities.
Leave provisions follow the Treasury Board policies applicable to all federal public servants, including annual leave, sick leave, family-related leave, and other statutory entitlements. Discussions about specific work arrangements should occur during the recruitment process and be formalized in your employment terms with your supervisor and human resources representatives.
