As a Manager of Performance and Talent Management, you will lead and direct strategic human resources initiatives that develop, engage, and retain talented military and civilian personnel across the Department of National Defence. You will be responsible for designing and implementing comprehensive performance management systems, succession planning programs, and talent development strategies that align with organizational goals and support the overall readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces and defence team.
Your day-to-day responsibilities include overseeing performance evaluation processes, managing talent identification and development programs, coaching managers on performance discussions, and ensuring compliance with Treasury Board and DND HR policies. You will work with senior leadership to identify skill gaps, design training and mentoring initiatives, and create career pathways that build organizational capacity. This role requires you to balance strategic planning with hands-on problem-solving, often addressing complex interpersonal and organizational dynamics.
You will work in a dynamic, mission-focused environment where your decisions directly impact personnel engagement and organizational effectiveness. Your workplace may be located at a National Defence headquarters, Canadian Armed Forces base, or regional office, with opportunities to collaborate with HR teams, military commanders, and civilian managers across the defence enterprise.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of performance and talent management services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the performance and talent 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
Successful candidates typically hold a bachelor's degree in human resources management, organizational psychology, business administration, or a related field. Some positions may accept equivalent work experience demonstrating progressive HR leadership responsibilities. Professional certifications such as the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) or Certified Professional Coach (CPC) are highly valued and may be required depending on the specific position.
The Government of Canada provides ongoing professional development through Treasury Board and DND learning programs, including advanced leadership training, change management workshops, and specialized HR certifications. You will have opportunities to pursue advanced credentials such as a master's degree in business administration or human resources, and access to coaching and mentoring programs that support your career growth as an HR leader.
Entry Plans
Entry into this management-level position typically occurs through one of several pathways within the federal Public Service. Most candidates apply through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website, which are competitive processes evaluating your education, experience, and demonstrated competencies in HR management and leadership.
Lateral moves from other HR specialist or advisor positions within DND or other federal departments are common, allowing professionals to advance into management roles after gaining foundational HR experience. Some candidates enter through priority hiring lists established from previous competitions. DND also considers candidates from the Canadian Armed Forces with HR background who are transitioning to civilian careers. Internal promotion from senior HR advisor or specialist positions is another pathway for experienced DND employees. All candidates must meet language requirements (English or French, or both) and obtain security clearance appropriate to the position.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements may be available for this management position, subject to operational requirements and approval by your supervisor. Many DND locations support flexible scheduling, compressed work weeks, and remote work options for managers when duties permit. However, as a manager responsible for leading teams and supporting organizational initiatives, you may be required to maintain regular on-site presence for meetings, staff development, and collaboration with senior leadership.
Remote work is increasingly available for administrative and strategic planning components of the role, though some in-person attendance is typically necessary for performance discussions, team engagement, and organizational presence. Specific flexible work arrangements depend on your work location, operational needs, and agreement with management. It is recommended to discuss flexible work options during the recruitment process and with your manager once hired, as arrangements are tailored to individual circumstances and organizational requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
