As a Manager - Graphic Design, you will lead a team of graphic designers and creative professionals within the Department of National Defence. You are responsible for overseeing the development, production, and delivery of high-quality visual communications materials that support DND's strategic objectives and public-facing initiatives. This includes managing project timelines, budgets, and resources while maintaining alignment with federal communications standards and branding guidelines.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include directing design projects, mentoring team members, reviewing creative work, and collaborating with stakeholders across communications, marketing, and operational departments. You will set creative direction, ensure quality standards are met, and advocate for design excellence within organizational processes. You may also participate in strategic communications planning and provide expert advice on visual messaging and design solutions to senior leadership.
You will work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where deadlines are critical and priorities can shift rapidly. Your work directly impacts how DND communicates with the Canadian public, military personnel, and international partners. Success in this role requires strong leadership skills, creative vision, and the ability to balance artistic excellence with practical business needs.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of graphic design services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the graphic design team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Writing and editing, Strategic thinking, Media relations, Digital content creation, Stakeholder engagement, People management, Operational oversight, Quality assurance, Resource coordination
Typical Education
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
Minimum education: Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, or a related field is typically required. Some positions may accept equivalent professional experience in lieu of formal education.
Required technical skills include proficiency with industry-standard design software such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), project management tools, and knowledge of print and digital design principles. Strong understanding of federal accessibility standards (AODA) and web standards is essential.
Certifications: While not always mandatory, professional certifications in graphic design, project management (PMP, CAPM), or Adobe applications are valued. Membership in professional organizations such as the Graphic Designers of Canada can demonstrate commitment to the field.
Ongoing professional development is encouraged and may include training in emerging design trends, digital marketing technologies, video production, user experience (UX) design, and federal communications policies. DND supports employees through learning and development programs, conferences, and online courses to keep skills current.
Entry Plans
Entry to this position typically occurs through several pathways within the federal Public Service:
Public Service Commission (PSC) Competitions: The primary method is through open or internal PSC competitions. These are advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website and require candidates to meet education and experience qualifications. Competition processes include written assessments, portfolio reviews, and interviews.
Internal Mobility: Current DND civilian employees and other federal public servants may apply through internal competitions or lateral moves to transition into management roles. Prior experience as a Graphic Designer or in related communications positions strengthens applications.
Student Programs: Recent graduates may enter through student employment programs or apprenticeships that provide pathway opportunities to permanent positions after successfully completing program requirements.
Designated Pools: When available, candidates may be hired from established recruitment pools created by previous competitions, reducing the timeline for hiring.
Candidates must obtain security clearance at the Secret level for most DND positions. The application process typically requires submission of a professional portfolio demonstrating design expertise, work examples, and proof of educational credentials.
Part-Time Options
Part-time opportunities for Manager - Graphic Design positions are limited due to the nature of management responsibilities, which typically require full-time presence for team leadership and strategic decision-making. However, flexible arrangements may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis depending on operational needs.
Remote and hybrid work options have become more common across DND since 2021. Many graphic design managers work in hybrid arrangements, combining in-office collaboration with remote work. This flexibility allows for focused design work and administrative tasks to be completed off-site while maintaining regular in-person meetings with teams and stakeholders.
Flexible work arrangements, including staggered hours or compressed work weeks, may be available in some locations to support work-life balance. All arrangements are subject to operational requirements and management approval. DND continues to evaluate flexible work policies to support employee well-being while maintaining service delivery to the department and Canadian Armed Forces.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
