As a Manager in Financial Management, you lead financial operations and strategy within Department of National Defence (DND) civilian teams. You oversee budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and resource management activities that support defence operations and priorities. Your work directly impacts how DND allocates billions in annual funding across military readiness, personnel, infrastructure, and procurement.
Your responsibilities include developing and monitoring financial plans, ensuring compliance with Treasury Board policies and government financial regulations, managing budget cycles, supervising financial staff, and providing financial advice to senior leadership. You analyze spending trends, identify cost efficiencies, and ensure accurate financial reporting. In DND's complex environment, you balance operational needs with fiscal responsibility across multiple programs and locations.
You work in a structured office environment, primarily at DND headquarters in Ottawa or regional financial centres. You collaborate with program managers, procurement specialists, and other government departments. The role involves managing multiple priorities, meeting government reporting deadlines, and responding to financial audits and Treasury Board requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of general financial management services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the general financial 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
Financial analysis, Accounting principles (PSAS/IFRS), SAP/financial systems, Budgeting, Attention to detail, People management, Operational oversight, Quality assurance, Resource coordination
Typical Education
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
Most candidates hold a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field. Many have completed or are pursuing professional accounting designations such as CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant), CA (Chartered Accountant), or CGA (Certified General Accountant). Government of Canada financial management training is provided to all new managers, covering Treasury Board policies, government accounting standards, and DND-specific financial systems.
Ongoing professional development is supported through the Public Service Learning Network, including courses in strategic financial planning, people management, and government legislation. Many managers pursue executive education programs or project management certifications (PMP). DND also offers specialized training in defence procurement, capital planning, and security-related financial management. Continuing education in accounting standards and government financial policy is essential to maintain professional credentials.
Entry Plans
Entry into this role typically occurs through federal Public Service competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). Most positions are at the Manager (Financial Management) level within the Financial Management group. Candidates must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents with security clearance eligibility.
Common entry pathways include: (1) lateral moves from similar financial management roles in other federal departments; (2) promotion from financial analyst or coordinator positions within DND; (3) external recruitment from the private sector or other organizations, with experience in accounting, budgeting, or financial operations; (4) participation in the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) or co-op programs for students studying finance or accounting, which can lead to permanent positions. Some candidates enter through bridging competitions for recent graduates or through priority hiring for veterans. All candidates must meet security clearance requirements, typically Secret level minimum for DND financial management roles.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work is available in some financial management positions within DND, though full-time roles are most common. Part-time arrangements are typically negotiated on a case-by-case basis and may be more limited at the manager level due to supervisory responsibilities and the need for continuity in financial oversight.
Flexible work options such as compressed work weeks or flexible hours are generally available where operational requirements permit. Many DND financial teams have adopted hybrid work arrangements, allowing managers and staff to work remotely several days per week while maintaining in-office time for collaboration and oversight. Remote work eligibility depends on the specific position, team needs, and security requirements. Telework agreements must align with DND workplace policies and Treasury Board guidelines. Managers are encouraged to discuss flexibility options with their hiring manager during the recruitment process, as arrangements vary by location and team.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
