As a Director General - Workplace Well Being, you provide strategic leadership and direction for workplace well-being initiatives across the Department of National Defence. You develop and implement comprehensive policies, programs, and services that promote the physical, mental, and social well-being of civilian employees and military personnel. This executive role involves working with senior leadership, union representatives, and external partners to create a healthy, inclusive, and supportive work environment.
Your responsibilities include overseeing the development of well-being strategies, managing wellness programs, coordinating mental health and occupational health services, and ensuring compliance with federal health and safety legislation. You lead a team of professionals in human resources, occupational health, employee assistance, and wellness promotion. You also monitor program effectiveness, manage budgets, and report on well-being metrics and outcomes to senior management.
This position is based in the National Capital Region and operates in a dynamic, collaborative environment. You work closely with other government departments, Treasury Board Secretariat, and organizations focused on public service health and well-being. The role requires strong leadership skills, strategic thinking, and a commitment to supporting the well-being of a diverse workforce.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver workplace well-being 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
Applicants typically have a university degree in human resources management, occupational health and safety, public administration, psychology, or a related field. Many successful candidates hold a Master's degree in one of these disciplines or in business administration (MBA).
Professional certifications valued for this role include Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP), Certified Occupational Health and Safety Professional (COHSP), or similar designations from recognized professional bodies. Some candidates hold credentials in mental health promotion, employee assistance program management, or organizational development.
Continuing professional development is expected at this level. The Public Service Commission and Treasury Board offer leadership development programs for executive managers. The Canadian Association of Occupational Health Nurses, Canadian Society of Safety Engineering, and similar organizations provide ongoing learning opportunities. Many candidates pursue certifications in change management, strategic planning, and inclusive workplace practices throughout their careers.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Director General position typically occurs through a competitive staffing process. Most candidates come from within the Public Service, having progressed through lower-classification HR or well-being roles over several years. Common pathways include advancing from positions such as Senior Advisor - Workplace Well Being, Manager of Employee Assistance Programs, or Manager of Occupational Health Services.
The Public Service Commission conducts recruitment for executive positions. These competitions may be open to Public Service employees only, or to the broader Canadian public, depending on departmental needs. Candidates are evaluated on demonstrated leadership experience, strategic HR knowledge, program management expertise, and the ability to lead organizational change.
Lateral moves from other government departments are common for qualified candidates with executive HR experience. Some candidates transition from roles in Treasury Board Secretariat, Health Canada, Veterans Affairs Canada, or the Canada Revenue Agency. Previous experience leading HR initiatives, managing large teams, or developing policies at the director level strengthens applications.
The Public Service also maintains executive development pools and succession planning programs that identify and develop high-potential mid-level managers for advancement to Director General roles.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work at the Director General level is uncommon due to the strategic and leadership demands of the position. However, the Government of Canada does support flexible work arrangements for managers where operationally feasible.
Remote and hybrid work options may be available depending on departmental needs and the approval of senior leadership. Most Director General positions require a significant on-site presence in Ottawa for meetings with senior government officials, interdepartmental coordination, and in-person leadership of teams.
Flexible scheduling arrangements, such as adjusted start and end times or compressed work weeks, may be negotiated with your deputy minister or senior leadership. The Public Service prioritizes work-life balance and supports employees in finding arrangements that work with their personal circumstances, subject to operational requirements.
Employees in this role typically work full-time hours and may be required to participate in evening or weekend activities related to emergency response, special projects, or departmental priorities. Additional details about specific flexible work options should be discussed during the job offer process with the hiring manager.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
