As a Manager of Diversity, Inclusion and Employment Equity, you will lead strategic initiatives that advance diversity, inclusion and employment equity within your organization. You will develop and implement policies, programs and action plans that foster an inclusive workplace culture while ensuring compliance with the Canadian Human Rights Act and Employment Equity Act. This role requires you to work across multiple departments and levels of leadership to drive meaningful change and embed inclusive practices throughout organizational systems and processes.
Your responsibilities will include analyzing workforce data to identify gaps and barriers to equity, designing targeted recruitment and retention strategies for underrepresented groups, and establishing measurable objectives for diversity and inclusion outcomes. You will also provide consultation and guidance to managers and employees on employment equity issues, oversee the administration of accommodation requests, and lead training initiatives on respectful workplace conduct and unconscious bias. This is a people-focused role that combines strategic planning, policy development, program management and stakeholder engagement.
You will work in a dynamic environment that values collaboration, cultural awareness and continuous improvement. Regular interaction with HR colleagues, senior management, external partners and employee resource groups will be part of your daily work. You may also represent your organization at interdepartmental working groups and contribute to government-wide diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of diversity, inclusion and employment equity services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the diversity, inclusion and employment equity 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
A bachelor's degree is typically required for this position. Relevant fields of study include human resources management, business administration, organizational psychology, sociology, law or public administration. Some positions may accept equivalent work experience in lieu of formal education.
Certifications that strengthen your candidacy include the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation, the Certified Diversity Professional (CDP) credential, or equivalents recognized by professional HR bodies. Knowledge of employment equity legislation, human rights law and accessibility standards is essential.
Professional development opportunities within the federal public service include training through the Public Service School of Management, courses on diversity and inclusion best practices, and participation in interdepartmental learning networks. Many managers pursue advanced certifications in organizational development, change management or specialized areas of diversity and inclusion. Mentorship programs and conferences focused on diversity in the public sector are also valuable for continuous learning.
Entry Plans
To enter this career in the federal Public Service, you can apply through public staffing competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank. Competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who meet the stated qualifications and language requirements.
If you are already working in the federal public service, you may be eligible for priority hiring under internal appointment processes or as a lateral move from related HR positions. Many managers in this field start in entry-level HR roles such as HR Advisors or Specialists in human resources, and progress through demonstrated performance and competitive promotions.
The federal government also offers student employment programs including the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and the Post-Secondary Recruitment Initiative (PSRI), which can provide pathway experience in HR functions. Internship programs in diversity and inclusion also create opportunities to develop relevant skills and build connections within the public service.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are often available for this role, depending on operational requirements and your organization's policies. Many managers in diversity, inclusion and employment equity roles are able to negotiate flexible schedules, compressed work weeks, or job sharing arrangements with their supervisors.
Remote and hybrid work options have become more common in federal HR roles. Depending on your organization's mandate and the nature of your responsibilities, you may be able to work remotely for a portion of your week or undertake certain project-based work from home. Some consultations with staff and managers may require in-person attendance, but many meetings and collaborative work can be conducted virtually.
Work-life balance initiatives, leave provisions and Employee Assistance Programs are available to support federal employees. If you have specific accommodation needs or require flexible arrangements due to caregiving responsibilities, health conditions or other circumstances, the Public Service is committed to working with you to find workable solutions in accordance with human rights and accessibility obligations.
