As a Director General - Public Outreach, you will lead and manage a large-scale public engagement function within the Department of National Defence. You will be responsible for developing and implementing strategic public outreach initiatives that enhance DND's relationship with Canadians and support defence objectives. This senior executive role requires you to direct a significant team, manage substantial budgets, and collaborate with senior government officials, media, community leaders, and the public.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include setting the strategic direction for public outreach programs, overseeing communications campaigns, managing stakeholder relationships, and ensuring that DND's key messages reach target audiences effectively. You will lead the development of policies and procedures for your functional area, represent DND at high-level meetings, and provide expert advice to senior leadership on public perception and engagement strategies.
You will work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where you must balance competing priorities, respond to emerging public issues, and adapt strategies based on feedback and changing circumstances. This role offers the opportunity to shape how Canadians understand and connect with the Department of National Defence.
Key Responsibilities
Perform public outreach duties within the relationship management function, Prepare reports and documentation as required, Collaborate with team members and stakeholders, Maintain records and ensure compliance with relevant policies
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
Candidates for this position typically hold a university degree in communications, public relations, political science, public administration, or a related discipline. Advanced education such as a Master's degree in Public Administration, Communications, or Business Administration is advantageous.
Professional certifications or credentials in public relations, communications management, or stakeholder engagement are valued. You should demonstrate continuous professional development through participation in executive leadership programs, advanced project management training, or specialized courses in strategic communications and public engagement.
The Government of Canada provides ongoing professional development opportunities, including executive coaching, leadership training through the Canada School of Public Service, and specialized workshops in communications strategy, media relations, and crisis communications. Mentorship from experienced senior leaders is also available to support your growth in this role.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Director General position is typically through competitive staffing processes advertised by the Department of National Defence. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and other eligible candidates.
You may enter this level through several pathways: lateral appointment from other federal departments or agencies if you hold equivalent senior management experience; promotion from a lower-level position (such as Director level) within DND or other government departments; or external recruitment if you bring substantial private sector or non-governmental experience in public outreach, communications, or senior management.
Many candidates progress through the Public Service by starting in intermediate or manager-level roles and advancing through successive competitions. Executive search firms may be engaged for external recruitment at this senior level. Current federal public servants interested in this career should monitor the DND careers website and the Government of Canada's official job board (Jobs.gc.ca) for advertised competitions. Networking with DND leadership and maintaining a strong track record in progressively senior roles will enhance your competitiveness for appointment.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work is generally not available at the Director General level, as this is a full-time executive position requiring continuous leadership, strategic decision-making, and availability for meetings with senior officials and external stakeholders.
However, flexible work arrangements may be negotiated on an individual basis, subject to operational requirements and DND's policies. These could include flexible hours or periodic telework days, provided that core leadership duties are maintained and organizational needs are met.
Remote work options are limited due to the executive nature of the role and the need for regular in-person collaboration with senior leadership and stakeholder engagement. Most work will be conducted from DND headquarters or regional offices. During periods of reduced operational tempo, some flexibility may be available, but this would be determined through discussion with your supervisor and in accordance with Treasury Board and DND directives.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
