As a Manager - Advertising within the Department of National Defence, you will lead the planning, development, and execution of advertising campaigns that communicate DND and Canadian Armed Forces messages to target audiences. You will oversee a team of advertising professionals, manage budgets, and coordinate with internal stakeholders and external agencies to ensure campaigns meet organizational objectives and government communications standards. This role combines strategic thinking with creative oversight, requiring you to balance military communication needs with effective public engagement. You will work in a dynamic environment where your decisions directly impact how Canadians understand defence and national security priorities. The position reports to senior communications leadership and involves collaboration across multiple departments and levels of government.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of general communications services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the general communications team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Writing and editing, Strategic thinking, Media relations, Digital content creation, Stakeholder engagement, People management, Operational oversight, Quality assurance, Resource coordination
Typical Education
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
To succeed in this role, you should have a university degree in communications, marketing, business, or a related discipline. Previous experience in advertising management, marketing communications, or public sector communications is essential. Government of Canada language requirements apply—proficiency in both English and French may be required depending on the posting. Professional certifications in advertising, marketing, or communications (such as those offered by professional associations) are valued. Once hired, you will have access to Treasury Board and DND professional development programs, including training in government communications policy, digital marketing, media relations, and leadership development. Ongoing learning opportunities include courses in emerging media platforms, data analytics for campaign effectiveness, and Treasury Board Secretariat communications guidelines.
Entry Plans
Entry into this Manager - Advertising role typically occurs through advertised Government of Canada competitions posted on the Jobs website. Candidates may enter via: (1) Direct competition for the Manager level if you have relevant experience in advertising or communications management; (2) Promotion from lower classification levels within DND communications positions; (3) Lateral movement from other federal departments with equivalent communications management experience; (4) Priority consideration if you are a current Government of Canada employee in the same job family or related communications roles. Some positions may be filled through targeted recruitment pools for managers. Post-secondary graduates with strong communications backgrounds may enter at lower classification levels (such as Communications Advisor) and progress to Manager roles through demonstrated performance and internal competitions.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements may be available depending on operational requirements and team structure. While advertising campaign management typically requires full-time presence during active campaign phases, some aspects of the role can accommodate flexible scheduling during planning and strategy phases. Remote work options have expanded within the Government of Canada and may be available on a hybrid basis, particularly for strategic planning and administrative tasks. However, managerial responsibilities often require on-site presence for team leadership, stakeholder meetings, and coordination with agency partners. Specific accommodations are determined during the hiring process and in consultation with your manager. DND also offers employee assistance programs, wellness initiatives, and flexible leave options to support work-life balance.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
