As a Manager - Awards and Recognition within the Department of National Defence, you will lead and oversee the development, administration, and delivery of awards and recognition programs that celebrate the achievements and contributions of military and civilian personnel. You will be responsible for creating a positive workplace culture that acknowledges excellence, promotes engagement, and reinforces organizational values across DND and the Canadian Armed Forces.
In this role, you will manage a team of awards and recognition professionals, develop program policies and procedures, coordinate award nominations and selection processes, and ensure equitable and timely recognition of deserving individuals and teams. You will work collaboratively with senior leadership, Human Resources departments, and stakeholders across the organization to align recognition initiatives with strategic priorities and organizational culture. Your work will directly impact employee morale, retention, and the overall health of the workplace.
You will operate in a dynamic, inclusive environment that values diversity and respects both military and civilian perspectives. This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of DND employees by fostering a culture of appreciation and acknowledgment across the organization.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of awards and recognition services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the awards and recognition team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
HR policy interpretation, Interpersonal skills, Staffing and classification, Conflict resolution, Labour relations knowledge, 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 as a Manager - Awards and Recognition, you should possess a post-secondary degree in Human Resources Management, Business Administration, Public Administration, or a related discipline. Many candidates have completed professional certifications such as the Canadian Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation or are working toward this credential.
Formal education in Human Resources, organizational development, or change management is highly valued. The Government of Canada provides ongoing professional development opportunities, including training in federal HR policies, awards program administration, and management skills. You may also pursue certifications through professional associations such as the Canadian Society for Training and Development (CSTD) or the Public Service Commission to enhance your expertise in talent management and organizational culture.
Entry Plans
Entry into this position typically occurs through Public Service Commission (PSC) competitions open to Canadian citizens. Most candidates enter at the operational or senior operational level after demonstrating relevant experience in human resources, awards administration, or related fields.
Common pathways include: lateral moves from other HR specialist or coordinator roles within DND or the broader federal public service; promotion from Awards and Recognition Coordinator or Specialist positions; and external recruitment for candidates with significant private sector or other government HR management experience. Some candidates enter through the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC) at entry-level positions, then progress into management roles over time.
Competitive selection is based on demonstrated competencies in human resources management, program administration, team leadership, and knowledge of federal HR legislation and policies. Experience with awards programs, recognition initiatives, or similar administrative functions is an asset.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for this managerial position, subject to operational requirements and approval by management. Many managers within DND are able to negotiate flexible hours, compressed work weeks, or hybrid work schedules that combine remote and on-site work.
Remote work options have become increasingly available across the federal public service, and DND has embraced flexible work arrangements where feasible. As a manager, your ability to work remotely may depend on your specific responsibilities, team needs, and the nature of your work. Telework is typically permitted for administrative and planning tasks, though some in-person presence may be required for team meetings, stakeholder engagement, and recognition events.
Any flexible work arrangements must be formalized through a work arrangement agreement with your manager and should not compromise service delivery or team effectiveness. As a people manager, you are expected to model flexibility and support similar arrangements for your own team members while maintaining organizational priorities.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
