As a Director General in Resourcing Executive Services, you provide strategic leadership and direction for human resources initiatives across the Department of National Defence. You oversee the development and implementation of comprehensive resourcing strategies that align with organizational priorities and support the recruitment, retention, and management of civilian personnel. In this executive role, you lead a team of HR professionals and work collaboratively with senior management to ensure the department has the talent and capabilities needed to fulfill its mandate. Your decisions directly impact how the DND attracts, develops, and retains its civilian workforce—a critical function for operational effectiveness.
Your responsibilities include directing long-term HR planning, overseeing staffing processes, managing compensation and benefits frameworks, and ensuring compliance with federal labour legislation and Treasury Board policies. You develop business cases for resource allocation, mentor senior HR leaders, and represent the department in discussions with Treasury Board, the Public Service Commission, and other federal partners. You navigate complex organizational challenges, from succession planning to workforce modernization, while maintaining high standards of service delivery. This role requires strategic thinking, strong stakeholder management, and the ability to translate government policy into practical HR solutions.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver resourcing executive services 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
To qualify for this role, you typically need a bachelor's degree in human resources, business administration, public administration, or a related discipline. Many candidates hold a master's degree in human resources management, business administration, or public administration, which demonstrates advanced expertise in strategic HR planning. Professional certifications such as Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) or equivalent provincial designations strengthen your candidacy. You should have deep knowledge of federal public service legislation, including the Public Service Labour Relations Act, the Canadian Human Rights Act, and Treasury Board directives. Ongoing professional development in areas such as change management, financial management for HR leaders, and executive coaching is common. The DND offers learning opportunities through internal training programs, external workshops, and participation in government-wide HR forums and networks.
Entry Plans
Entry to this executive level typically occurs through open competition advertised on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca). Candidates are usually drawn from the senior HR ranks within the federal public service, including positions such as Director of Human Resources or equivalent roles in other departments. Lateral moves from related executive functions—such as organizational development, labour relations, or strategic planning—are also common. You may enter through an executive development program or talent pool if you have demonstrated senior management experience and meet the executive level competencies. Some candidates advance internally within DND by progressing through HR positions of increasing responsibility. The Public Service Commission conducts all competitions and ensures compliance with merit principles. To be considered, you must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and be willing to obtain a government security clearance.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time, given the strategic and leadership nature of the role. However, flexible work arrangements may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis within the constraints of operational requirements and Treasury Board policies. Remote work options have expanded across the federal public service in recent years, and many strategic HR functions can be performed outside a traditional office environment. Given your executive responsibilities, you may be expected to work beyond standard hours during critical periods such as departmental restructuring, budget cycles, or major staffing initiatives. The Public Service is committed to work-life balance and supporting employees with dependent care, health needs, and other personal circumstances. Specific arrangements depend on departmental operational needs and individual circumstances, and would be discussed with your manager and HR services.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
