As a Manager - Publishing with the Department of National Defence, you lead publishing operations and teams responsible for creating, producing, and distributing communications materials across multiple platforms. You oversee the planning, coordination, and delivery of publishing projects that support DND's strategic communications objectives, ensuring content meets quality standards, regulatory requirements, and accessibility guidelines. Your role involves managing editorial direction, coordinating with subject matter experts, and ensuring published materials effectively reach target audiences within the Canadian Armed Forces and the public.
Your responsibilities include supervising publishing staff, managing project timelines and budgets, maintaining quality control standards, and ensuring compliance with Government of Canada communications policies and the Official Languages Act. You collaborate with communications strategists, graphic designers, and content creators to develop cohesive publishing strategies. You also stay current with evolving publishing technologies and digital platforms to optimize content delivery and audience engagement.
You work in a collaborative environment within DND's communications directorate, often interacting with military personnel, civilian employees, and external stakeholders. Your work directly supports the Department's ability to communicate effectively with internal and external audiences, contributing to operational readiness and public trust.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of publishing services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the publishing 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
You typically need a bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, publishing, English, or a related field. Some positions may accept candidates with relevant college credentials combined with substantial work experience in publishing, editorial management, or communications. Professional certifications in project management (such as PMP or equivalent) are valuable but not always required. Government of Canada positions may require or prefer bilingualism (English and French), particularly for roles involving official publications or widespread internal communications. You should demonstrate familiarity with current publishing software, content management systems, and digital publishing platforms. Ongoing professional development is supported through Government of Canada learning programs, including courses in project management, team leadership, accessibility standards (WCAG), and digital communications strategies. Many managers pursue credentials through professional associations such as the Canadian Association of Professional Communicators (CAPC) or the Professional Editors' Association (PEA).
Entry Plans
You can enter this career in the federal Public Service through several pathways. The most common route is competing in a formal Government of Canada staffing competition advertised on the Public Service Commission (PSC) website or the DND Civilian Recruitment portal. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and may be restricted to current Public Service employees for priority consideration. You may also enter through lateral moves if you're already a Public Service employee in a related communications, publishing, or management position. Some candidates progress into Manager - Publishing roles after working in specialist positions such as Communications Advisor, Publications Officer, or Editor. Student or graduate recruitment programs may provide entry opportunities for recent graduates, particularly those with strong academic backgrounds in relevant fields. DND also accepts applications from external candidates during public competitions, where you would need to demonstrate your management experience, publishing expertise, and ability to meet the specific qualifications outlined in the competition materials.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Manager - Publishing positions, though availability depends on operational requirements and management approval. Many positions offer flexible work schedules that can accommodate compressed work weeks or staggered hours, allowing you to balance work and personal commitments while maintaining continuity of publishing operations. Remote work options have expanded within Government of Canada communications roles, with many managers working partially from home or alternate work locations, provided they maintain effective supervision of their teams and meet project deadlines. However, some management responsibilities—such as team meetings, staff development, and in-person coordination with stakeholders—typically require periodic office presence. The feasibility of flexible arrangements is negotiated with your supervisor and documented in a formal agreement. Part-time positions at the managerial level are less common but may be available in specific circumstances. You should discuss specific flexible work options during the recruitment process or with your manager once hired, as arrangements can be tailored to organizational needs and your individual situation.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
