As a Director General in Social Services, you will provide strategic leadership and direction for social services programs and initiatives across the Department of National Defence. In this executive role, you oversee the development and implementation of policies, programs, and services that support the health, well-being, and social needs of Canadian Armed Forces members, veterans, and their families. You are responsible for managing large budgets, leading teams of professionals, and ensuring programs align with departmental priorities and government objectives.
Your responsibilities include setting strategic direction for social services delivery, managing organizational performance, developing and mentoring senior staff, and liaising with other government departments and external stakeholders. You will analyze complex social issues, evaluate program effectiveness, and make recommendations to senior leadership on policy and service delivery improvements. This role requires you to balance competing priorities, manage stakeholder relationships, and ensure your programs deliver measurable results that improve the lives of those we serve.
You will work in a dynamic, mission-focused environment where your decisions directly impact vulnerable populations. This role offers the opportunity to shape national policy on social services and lead transformational change across the Defence organization. You will collaborate with other senior leaders, external partners, and subject matter experts to address emerging social challenges and ensure the CAF has world-class social services infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities
Provide social services services to clients and patients, Assess needs and develop treatment or service plans, Maintain accurate clinical and case records, Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver care
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
To qualify for this position, you typically need a university degree in a related field such as social work, public administration, psychology, human resources, health sciences, or a related discipline. Many successful candidates hold a master's degree in social work, public administration, business administration, or public policy.
Professional certifications or designations are valued, such as registration with provincial social work colleges, membership in professional associations like the Canadian Association of Social Workers, or certifications in organizational leadership and management.
Once appointed, you will have access to ongoing professional development including executive leadership programs, specialized training in defence and veterans affairs, advanced project management, and strategic planning courses. The Public Service Learning Portal offers courses on government policy, financial management, and human resources management. You may also pursue formal education through the Canadian Defence Academy or participate in interdepartmental learning initiatives to deepen your expertise in defence and social policy.
Entry Plans
Entry to this executive level typically occurs through federal Public Service competition. Most candidates progress through career advancement, starting in social services roles and advancing through intermediate and senior management positions. Typical career progression includes positions as a Social Worker, Senior Social Worker, Manager of Social Services, and Director of Social Services before reaching the Director General level.
You may enter through external recruitment competitions when the Public Service is seeking candidates with specialized expertise or leadership experience from outside government. Some candidates transition laterally from other federal departments or from provincial social services organizations, bringing relevant experience and management credentials.
The Public Service Commission manages competitions for executive appointments at this level. Candidates must demonstrate executive leadership competencies, strategic thinking, and a track record of managing large, complex organizations. Previous government experience is advantageous but not always required if you bring significant management experience and relevant professional credentials from the private or non-profit sectors.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time executive roles and are not available on a part-time basis. However, the Department of National Defence is committed to supporting flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible.
Remote work options may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis, depending on operational requirements and the nature of your responsibilities. Some aspects of executive work, such as strategic planning and policy development, can be performed remotely, though regular attendance at headquarters may be required for meetings, stakeholder engagement, and organizational presence.
The Public Service recognizes the importance of work-life balance and supports employees through flexible scheduling, telework agreements, and leave options including parental leave, compassionate leave, and wellness programs. As an executive leader, you may have greater flexibility in managing your schedule compared to other positions, provided you meet organizational commitments and maintain your leadership presence. Discussion of specific arrangements would occur during the hiring process and employment agreement negotiations.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
