As a Director General in Staffing and Resourcing, you will lead strategic human resources initiatives across the Department of National Defence. In this senior executive role, you are responsible for developing and implementing staffing policies, recruitment strategies, and resource management frameworks that support the DND's operational and organizational goals. You will oversee large teams of HR professionals, manage multi-million dollar budgets, and provide expert advice to senior leadership on complex workforce planning and talent management issues.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include directing staffing operations, managing recruitment campaigns, overseeing labour relations matters, and ensuring compliance with Treasury Board policies and the Public Service Labour Relations Act. You will collaborate with other government departments, external stakeholders, and union representatives to address workforce challenges and develop solutions. This role requires you to stay current with emerging HR trends, government priorities, and organizational change management best practices.
You will work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where your decisions directly impact the department's ability to attract, develop, and retain talented civilians. The position offers opportunities to influence national defence priorities through effective human resources leadership and to mentor senior HR professionals.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver staffing and resourcing 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
A bachelor's degree is required, preferably in human resources management, business administration, public administration, or a related field. Many successful candidates hold a master's degree in business administration (MBA), public administration (MPA), or human resources management.
Professional certifications such as Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) or Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) are highly valued. You should have demonstrated knowledge of Government of Canada staffing policies, Treasury Board directives, and the Public Service Labour Relations Act.
Ongoing professional development is expected and supported, including training in executive leadership, strategic planning, change management, labour relations, and emerging HR technologies. The Public Service offers numerous learning programs through the Canada School of Public Service (CSPS) and departmental training initiatives. Many Director Generals maintain professional memberships in human resources associations and participate in executive coaching to enhance their leadership capabilities.
Entry Plans
Entry to the Director General level typically occurs through internal advancement within the federal Public Service. Most candidates progress through intermediate HR positions such as Manager, Senior Advisor, or Director before reaching the Director General level.
Candidates usually enter the public service at the analyst or advisor level through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website. Lateral moves from other government departments or agencies are common, particularly for those with strong HR management experience.
Some candidates may enter through executive recruitment processes or talent pools specifically designed to identify high-potential managers for senior roles. The department also considers external candidates with significant private sector or other public sector HR leadership experience through targeted recruitment initiatives.
Advancement to Director General requires demonstration of executive-level competencies, including strategic thinking, financial management, stakeholder engagement, and the ability to lead organizational change. Successful candidates typically have 10-15 years of progressive HR experience, with at least 3-5 years in senior management roles.
Part-Time Options
The Director General position is typically a full-time, permanent role due to the strategic nature of the position and the requirement to provide senior leadership to the organization. However, the Government of Canada is committed to supporting work-life balance for all employees.
Flexible work arrangements may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis with your manager and may include flexible hours, compressed work weeks, or telework options, depending on operational requirements. Remote work may be possible for portions of your duties, though regular presence at the workplace is generally expected for meetings, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership.
As a senior executive, you will have access to the same benefits and leave entitlements as other public servants, including annual leave, sick leave, family-related leave, and unpaid leave options. The department recognizes the importance of maintaining employee wellness and supports various programs including mental health resources, fitness facilities, and employee assistance services.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
