As a Manager of Public Relations within the Department of National Defence, you will lead communications strategies that shape how the Canadian Armed Forces and DND connect with Canadians. You'll oversee a team of public relations professionals, managing media relations, internal communications, and strategic messaging that supports DND's operational and organizational objectives. This role is central to building public trust, explaining defence priorities, and ensuring accurate information reaches stakeholders across Canada and internationally.
Your responsibilities will include developing and implementing comprehensive communications plans, managing crisis communications, supervising media inquiries, and coordinating with other government departments and external partners. You'll work at the intersection of defence operations and public engagement, ensuring that communications strategies align with both military objectives and government priorities. The work environment is dynamic and often fast-paced, particularly during operational activities, policy announcements, or public controversies that require rapid response.
You'll be based primarily in Ottawa or at a regional DND office, working in a professional office setting with regular interaction with senior leadership, external media, and other government communicators. Travel to military bases, operations, or media events may be required. This is an ideal role for someone who thrives in high-stakes environments where clear, accurate communication directly impacts public perception and organizational success.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of public relations services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the public relations 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
A university degree in communications, public relations, journalism, political science, or a related field is typically required. Many successful candidates hold a bachelor's degree at minimum; some pursue master's degrees in communications, public administration, or business. Strong writing and analytical skills are essential, along with demonstrated experience in media relations, strategic communications, or public affairs.
While not always mandatory, professional certifications such as Accredited in Public Relations (APR) through the Canadian Public Relations Society (CPRS) strengthen your candidacy. DND and the Government of Canada provide extensive professional development opportunities, including training in government communications protocols, media training, crisis communications, and leadership development. You'll also have access to learning opportunities through Treasury Board policies on communications and ongoing education in emerging communication technologies and social media strategies. Many managers pursue executive leadership programs to develop strategic planning and team management capabilities.
Entry Plans
Entry into a Manager - Public Relations position typically follows one of several pathways within the federal Public Service. Most candidates begin as Communications Advisors or Public Relations Officers (lower classification levels) and advance through merit-based competitions as they gain experience. The Government of Canada regularly posts competitions for management-level communications roles; you can monitor opportunities on the Government of Canada Job Bank and DND's internal staffing portal.
Lateral moves from other government departments' communications teams are common, as your experience in federal public service communications is highly transferable. Some candidates enter through the Canadian Armed Forces Recruiting Centre if they have prior military service, though this is not required. The Post-Secondary Recruitment Program and the Federal Student Work Experience Program provide pathways for recent graduates to enter communications roles and advance to management positions. Internal advancement is encouraged—many managers started in junior communications positions within DND and worked up through successive competitions. Networking within government communications circles and demonstrating expertise in defence-related communications can significantly enhance your competitiveness in selection processes.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Manager - Public Relations positions, though availability depends on operational needs and team structure. Many DND offices support flexible hours, allowing you to adjust start and end times while maintaining core coverage during business hours. Remote work options have expanded across the federal government, and many communications managers work hybrid schedules—some days in the office for team meetings and crisis response, other days working remotely on strategy development and writing.
Flexible work is most feasible during routine periods; during active operations, policy launches, or media-intensive situations, you may need to be fully available on short notice. Some positions offer compressed work weeks or part-time arrangements (such as four days per week), though progression to management levels typically assumes substantial availability. If flexible work is important to you, discuss specific arrangements during the recruitment process. DND is committed to supporting work-life balance, and many managers successfully negotiate arrangements that meet both personal needs and operational requirements. Parental leave, sabbaticals, and other leave benefits are available under federal public service policies.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
