As a Manager - Data Management in the Department of National Defence, you will lead and oversee data management initiatives that support critical defence and security operations. You will be responsible for developing data strategies, managing teams of data professionals, and ensuring that data governance frameworks align with organizational objectives and government standards. This role combines technical expertise with people management, requiring you to balance operational priorities with the development of your team members.
Your responsibilities will include directing data architecture and infrastructure projects, implementing data quality standards, and ensuring compliance with Treasury Board Secretariat directives on information management. You will collaborate with senior leadership, other government departments, and external partners to establish best practices in data handling, security, and analytics. You will also be accountable for budget management, resource allocation, and performance metrics related to data management operations.
You will work in a dynamic environment where data-driven decision-making is increasingly important to national defence and security. Your work will have a direct impact on operational effectiveness, policy development, and strategic planning across DND. This role offers the opportunity to influence how the organization manages one of its most valuable assets while leading a skilled team through technological change.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of data management services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the data 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
Records management, ATIP legislation, Information governance, Classification systems, Digital literacy, 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 successful in this role, you should have a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, engineering, mathematics, or a related field. Many candidates also hold master's degrees in business administration, data science, or information systems management.
Key certifications and professional development opportunities include: Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP), Certified Information Systems Manager (CISM), and various cloud platform certifications relevant to DND infrastructure. The Government of Canada supports ongoing professional development through the Public Service Learning Portal and partnerships with professional organizations.
Experience with data governance frameworks, database management systems, and information security protocols is essential. Knowledge of Treasury Board Secretariat policies on information management, the Access to Information and Privacy (ATIP) Act, and government security classifications is important. Many managers in this field pursue certifications in cybersecurity and data protection to remain current with evolving threats and regulatory requirements.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Manager - Data Management position typically occurs through one of several pathways within the federal Public Service:
**Direct Competition:** External candidates and current public servants can apply through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's job portal (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions assess your managerial experience, technical knowledge, and leadership capabilities.
**Lateral Movement:** Current DND employees in data management, information technology, or related information management roles can transition into this manager-level position through internal competitions or priority placement processes. This pathway recognizes your existing knowledge of DND operations and systems.
**Promotion from Within:** Employees currently working at the specialist or senior analyst level in data management roles may be promoted to this managerial position based on demonstrated leadership potential and performance.
**Student and Early Career Programs:** The federal Public Service offers programs such as the Post-Secondary Recruitment Initiative (PSRI) and the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) that can lead to permanent positions. Participants gain exposure to government work environments and may transition to management roles after gaining sufficient experience.
All candidates must obtain a valid security clearance (usually Secret or Top Secret depending on the role's requirements) and meet Treasury Board requirements for management positions.
Part-Time Options
Flexible work arrangements for the Manager - Data Management role depend on operational requirements and supervisory approval. While the primary expectation is a full-time commitment due to leadership and decision-making responsibilities, DND has increasingly supported flexible work options.
**Remote Work:** Many data management functions can be performed remotely, and DND has expanded hybrid work options for eligible employees. Managers may have the flexibility to work from home for portions of the week while maintaining regular office presence for team meetings, planning sessions, and stakeholder engagement.
**Flexible Hours:** Managers may negotiate flexible start and end times to accommodate personal circumstances, provided core business hours are maintained for team coordination and departmental meetings.
**Part-Time Management:** True part-time managerial positions are less common due to the demands of leadership responsibilities; however, discussions with your supervisor and HR can sometimes accommodate reduced-hour arrangements during specific life circumstances.
Arrangements are typically formalized through written agreements and are subject to operational requirements, team needs, and the nature of ongoing data management initiatives. New managers should discuss flexibility options with their supervisor after being appointed to understand what arrangements are feasible within their specific branch or directorate.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
