As a Manager - Sports, you will lead and direct sports programs and services that enhance the health, wellness, and morale of the Department of National Defence civilian workforce and military personnel. You will develop strategic initiatives to promote physical fitness, competitive sports, and recreational activities across Defence installations and communities. Your role involves managing budgets, facilities, staff, and partnerships to deliver high-quality sports programming that supports operational readiness and employee well-being.
In this position, you will be responsible for planning and implementing sports events, managing sports facilities, overseeing coaching and instruction programs, and ensuring compliance with safety standards and federal policies. You will work with diverse teams including athletes, coaches, facility staff, and external sports organizations to create inclusive and accessible programming for all skill levels. Your leadership will directly impact the physical and mental health outcomes of Defence personnel and their families.
You will work in a collaborative environment within Defence establishments, potentially at multiple locations across Canada. This role requires strong organizational skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to manage competing priorities while maintaining focus on delivering excellent service to your stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of sports services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the sports team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Research methodology, Analytical thinking, Written communication, Policy analysis, Critical reasoning, People management, Operational oversight, Quality assurance, Resource coordination
Typical Education
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
To succeed as a Manager - Sports, you should have a bachelor's degree in sports management, kinesiology, recreation management, or a related field. Some positions may accept equivalent combination of education and professional experience in sports program management or facility management.
Professional certifications that strengthen your candidacy include: Canadian certified fitness professional credentials, sport facility management certifications, and project management credentials (PMP or equivalent). You may be required to obtain or maintain certifications in first aid, CPR, and facility safety standards.
The federal Public Service provides ongoing professional development opportunities including management training, financial management for non-financial managers, strategic planning workshops, and sports management specific courses. Access to learning platforms such as LinkedIn Learning and the Canada School of Public Service supports continuous skill development throughout your career.
Entry Plans
Entry to the Manager - Sports position typically occurs through open competitions advertised on the Government of Canada's Job Bank and DND recruitment portals. Candidates compete on the basis of their education, experience, and demonstrated competencies in sports program management and leadership.
The DND Civilian Workforce may also use talent pools to fill positions more efficiently. If you have recently completed a competition for a similar role, you may be eligible for pool consideration without recompeting. Lateral moves from other Government of Canada departments are possible if you have relevant sports management or program delivery experience and meet the position requirements.
Recent graduates may enter through specific recruitment initiatives or student employment programs, which provide opportunities to gain experience while pursuing permanent positions. Veterans transitioning to civilian roles with relevant sports management background may have access to targeted recruitment measures. All applicants must meet security clearance requirements and be Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements for Manager - Sports positions may be available depending on operational needs and departmental priorities. Some aspects of this role, such as event coordination and program delivery, may require evening, weekend, or shift-based work to accommodate athlete and participant schedules.
Remote work options are typically limited due to the hands-on nature of sports management, facility oversight, and the need to be present during program delivery and special events. However, administrative and planning components of the role may be performed remotely where operational requirements permit.
Flexible scheduling may be negotiated to accommodate compressed work weeks or flexible hours during off-season periods. Part-time opportunities may be more readily available for entry-level or specialized sports program roles rather than management positions. All arrangements are subject to collective agreement provisions and departmental operational requirements. Interested candidates should discuss flexible work options during the recruitment and hiring process.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
