As a Manager - Accounting Operations, you will lead and oversee the accounting operations function within the Department of National Defence. In this role, you are responsible for directing a team of accounting professionals, ensuring the accuracy and timeliness of financial transactions, and maintaining compliance with Treasury Board policies and Canadian accounting standards. You will manage day-to-day accounting activities, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger management, and financial reporting processes.
Your responsibilities include supervising and developing accounting staff, implementing process improvements and controls, troubleshooting complex accounting issues, and ensuring departmental financial records are accurate and complete. You will also serve as a subject matter expert on accounting policies and procedures, liaising with other departments and external auditors as needed. This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
You will work in an office-based environment, primarily at a DND location. This position is part of the broader financial management function that supports the department's operational and strategic objectives. Your work directly contributes to the transparency and accountability of public funds.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of accounting operations services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the accounting operations team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Financial analysis, Accounting principles (PSAS/IFRS), SAP/financial systems, Budgeting, Attention to detail, People management, Operational oversight, Quality assurance, Resource coordination
Typical Education
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
To be considered for this position, you typically need a bachelor's degree in accounting, commerce, finance, or a related field from a recognized post-secondary institution. Many successful candidates hold professional accounting designations such as CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant), CGA (Certified General Accountant), or CA (Chartered Accountant).
Ongoing professional development is expected and supported in this role. The Government of Canada encourages participation in continuing education to maintain professional certifications and stay current with evolving accounting standards and financial management practices. DND provides access to training programs, workshops, and seminars related to financial management, leadership development, and Treasury Board compliance. You may also pursue advanced certifications or specialized training in areas such as government accounting, internal controls, or audit procedures.
Entry Plans
Entry into this position typically occurs through one of several pathways within the federal Public Service. Most commonly, candidates compete through open public service competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's official job board (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions are merit-based and open to all eligible candidates, including current public service employees.
Current federal employees may also transition into this role through lateral moves or promotions from related accounting or financial management positions. The Public Service Commission may maintain staffing pools for manager-level accounting positions to support multiple departments. Additionally, some candidates enter through the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC) before advancing to permanent positions.
To be eligible, you must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, obtain a security clearance (typically Secret), and meet the education and experience requirements outlined in the competition. Prior accounting experience in the public or private sector is highly valued, and experience in government financial management is an asset.
Part-Time Options
Part-time opportunities for Manager - Accounting Operations positions are limited due to the supervisory and operational nature of the role. However, the Government of Canada is committed to workplace flexibility where operationally feasible.
Remote work arrangements may be available depending on departmental operations and workload requirements. Many of the tasks associated with this role, such as financial analysis, report preparation, and team communication, can be performed remotely. However, as a manager overseeing accounting operations, some in-person presence may be required for team supervision, process oversight, and compliance verification.
Flexible work schedules, such as compressed work weeks or modified hours, may be negotiated with your manager based on business needs and department policy. Any flexible arrangement would be discussed during the recruitment process or after joining DND. We encourage candidates to discuss specific flexibility needs with the hiring manager during their interview.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
