As a Director General in Resource Management, you will provide strategic leadership and oversight of resource planning, budgeting, and financial management functions within the Department of National Defence. You will be responsible for developing policies, plans, and frameworks that ensure effective allocation and stewardship of financial and human resources across the organization. This role involves working at the executive level, reporting to senior leadership and collaborating with other departments and government agencies to align DND resource management with Government of Canada priorities.
In this position, you will lead teams of professionals in financial analysis, budgeting, planning, and asset management. Your responsibilities include setting strategic direction, ensuring compliance with Treasury Board policies and financial regulations, identifying areas for organizational improvement, and managing complex financial and administrative operations. You will play a key role in supporting DND's operational capabilities by ensuring resources are allocated efficiently and effectively.
You will work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment that requires sound judgment, analytical thinking, and the ability to manage competing priorities. Your work will have direct impact on DND's ability to deliver on its mandate and support the Canadian Armed Forces. This role offers opportunities to influence government-wide practices and contribute to national security objectives through effective resource management.
Key Responsibilities
Perform resource management functions per GC financial policies, Prepare financial reports, analyses, and forecasts, Process transactions and maintain financial records, Support audit readiness and internal controls
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
To qualify for this position, you typically need a university degree in business administration, public administration, finance, economics, accounting, or a related discipline. Many successful candidates hold advanced qualifications such as a Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA), Master of Public Administration (MPA), or similar graduate credentials.
Professional certifications are valuable assets, including designations such as Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Project Management Professional (PMP), or certifications from the Institute of Corporate Directors (ICD). You should demonstrate extensive knowledge of government financial management, Treasury Board policies, and federal budgeting processes.
Continuing professional development is expected at this level. The Government of Canada offers executive leadership programs, financial management courses, and strategic planning training. Many candidates pursue additional certifications in areas such as change management, risk management, or advanced financial analysis. Government of Canada learning platforms provide access to online courses, and you may receive support for professional development activities that align with organizational needs.
Entry Plans
Entry to Director General positions in the Public Service typically occurs through competitive selection processes. Most candidates come from within the federal government, having progressed through the ranks of financial management or resource planning roles. Common pathways include advancing from Manager or Director level positions within DND or other government departments.
The Public Service Commission (PSC) conducts competitions for Director General positions, which are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Candidates usually require 10 or more years of progressive experience in financial management, resource planning, or related fields, with at least 5 years at a senior management level. Lateral moves from other government departments are common, as are appointments from the broader Public Service through competitive processes.
While student recruitment programs (such as the Federal Student Work Experience Program or post-secondary recruitment campaigns) lead to entry-level positions in resource management, progression to Director General typically takes 15-20 years of career development. Some candidates enter the Public Service as analysts or junior managers and advance through demonstrated leadership, subject matter expertise, and successful completion of increasingly complex assignments.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time, permanent positions due to the strategic and leadership responsibilities involved. However, the Government of Canada is committed to supporting work-life balance and may offer flexible arrangements on a case-by-case basis, subject to operational requirements and approval by senior management.
Remote work options have expanded across the federal government, and positions in resource management may offer hybrid or flexible work arrangements depending on the specific role and departmental needs. Many administrative and analytical tasks can be performed remotely, though some in-person attendance may be required for meetings, strategic planning sessions, and stakeholder engagement.
Flexible work arrangements, including compressed work weeks or modified schedules, may be available for discussion during the appointment process or after appointment, provided they do not compromise DND's operational effectiveness or service delivery. As an executive-level position, this role requires significant commitment to departmental priorities and may include occasional evening or weekend work during planning cycles or operational emergencies. Prospective candidates should discuss specific flexibility options with the hiring manager during the recruitment process.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
