As a Manager - Conflict Management in the Department of National Defence, you will lead and oversee conflict resolution initiatives, mediation services, and dispute resolution programs across the organization. You will develop and implement conflict management strategies, policies, and procedures that foster a respectful and productive workplace while supporting the Canadian Armed Forces and civilian workforce. This role combines human resources expertise with specialized knowledge of conflict resolution to help prevent workplace disputes and resolve issues fairly and efficiently.
Your responsibilities will include managing a team of conflict resolution specialists or mediators, designing and delivering conflict management training programs, and serving as a resource for managers and employees facing workplace disputes. You will work collaboratively with Human Resources, Labour Relations, and other organizational units to identify systemic issues and implement preventative measures. Your work will directly contribute to creating a psychologically healthy and inclusive workplace culture within DND.
You will work in a dynamic environment that requires strong interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence, and the ability to remain impartial. The role may involve conducting investigations, facilitating difficult conversations, and managing sensitive personnel matters. You may work at a DND headquarters location or regional office, and the position offers opportunities to influence policy and workplace culture at an organizational level.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of conflict management services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the conflict management 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 in this role, you should have a bachelor's degree in human resources management, organizational psychology, business administration, or a related field. Many successful candidates hold additional credentials such as a Master's degree in Conflict Resolution, Mediation, or Human Resources Management.
Professional certifications valued in this field include credentials from recognized mediation organizations, such as those offered by provincial or national mediation institutes. Training in conflict resolution, restorative justice, interest-based negotiation, and workplace investigation techniques is highly beneficial. Many managers in this role pursue ongoing professional development through:
• Certification in mediation, arbitration, or alternative dispute resolution (ADR)
• Advanced training in workplace investigation and harassment prevention
• Courses in organizational development and change management
• Professional development through the Canadian HR profession (CHRP designation)
• Training in labour relations, employment law, and collective agreement administration
• Workshops on cultural competency, trauma-informed practices, and mental health in the workplace
DND and the Public Service provide access to learning opportunities, mentorship programs, and professional associations that support career development in human resources and conflict management.
Entry Plans
There are several ways to enter a Manager - Conflict Management position within the federal Public Service:
**Public Service Competitions**: Most managerial positions are filled through open or semi-open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions are open to both current Public Service employees and external candidates and follow Treasury Board staffing rules.
**Internal Lateral Moves**: If you are already employed in the federal Public Service in a related role (such as HR Officer, Labour Relations Officer, or other HR professional positions), you may apply for managerial competitions as an internal candidate. Internal candidates often receive preference in competitions.
**Talent Pools and Staffing Lists**: DND and the broader Public Service maintain talent pools and staffing lists for HR and management positions. These pools allow candidates to be matched with opportunities without competing in formal competitions.
**Student and Early Career Programs**: Programs such as the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and the Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC) can provide entry points into the Public Service, allowing you to gain experience and move into managerial roles as you advance your career.
**Development Programs**: Some employees advance to manager positions through internal development and succession planning initiatives within their departments.
Most managerial positions require a minimum of several years of relevant experience in human resources, conflict resolution, or a related field before you are competitive for a manager-level role.
Part-Time Options
Part-time opportunities for Manager - Conflict Management positions are limited, as these roles typically require full-time commitment due to the managerial and leadership responsibilities involved. However, the Public Service does offer flexible work arrangements that may be available depending on operational needs and departmental policy.
**Flexible Work Options**: Many DND locations support flexible work schedules, compressed work weeks, and telework arrangements. A Manager - Conflict Management may be able to negotiate flexible hours or work-from-home days, provided the arrangement meets operational requirements and allows you to fulfill your leadership and conflict resolution responsibilities.
**Remote Work**: Depending on the specific position and work location, some conflict management and mediation services can be delivered remotely through virtual meetings and consultations. However, some in-person interaction with team members, managers, and employees may be necessary.
**Job Sharing**: In some cases, job sharing arrangements may be possible, though these are not common at the managerial level in the Public Service.
If flexible or part-time work is important to you, we recommend discussing options during the recruitment process or with DND Human Resources, as availability varies by position and location. The Public Service remains committed to supporting work-life balance and accommodating employees' needs where operationally feasible.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
