As a Manager - Supply Chain Management with the Department of National Defence, you will lead and oversee supply chain operations that support Canada's defence and security objectives. You will be responsible for planning, organizing, and directing the work of supply chain teams to ensure the timely and cost-effective delivery of materials, equipment, and services to DND and Canadian Armed Forces operations across Canada and internationally.
Your key responsibilities include developing and implementing supply chain strategies, managing procurement processes, overseeing inventory management, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with Treasury Board policies and DND directives. You will analyze supply chain performance, identify inefficiencies, and implement improvements that enhance operational readiness and value for money. This role requires strong analytical skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to manage complex, multi-million-dollar supply chain initiatives.
You will work in a dynamic, mission-focused environment where your decisions directly impact military readiness and operational capability. DND supply chain managers work across multiple locations, including National Defence Headquarters in Ottawa, regional logistics centres, and deployed operations. This role offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to Canada's defence while managing critical infrastructure and resources.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of general supply chain management services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the general supply chain management team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
A bachelor's degree is typically required for this position. Preferred fields of study include business administration, commerce, supply chain management, logistics, engineering, or related disciplines. Some positions may accept candidates with extensive relevant work experience and demonstrated expertise in lieu of a specific degree.
Professional certifications are highly valued, including Certified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Chartered Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), or equivalent credentials from recognized supply chain organizations. DND supports professional development and encourages managers to pursue relevant certifications throughout their careers.
Other valuable qualifications include knowledge of Treasury Board procurement policies, DND supply chain systems, project management expertise, and familiarity with government contracting regulations. DND provides ongoing training and development programs to help supply chain managers stay current with best practices, emerging technologies, and policy updates. Leadership training and executive development programs are available to support career advancement.
Entry Plans
You can enter the DND civilian workforce as a Supply Chain Management Manager through several pathways:
Public Service Commission (PSC) competitions are the primary route. DND regularly posts open competitions for manager-level supply chain positions. These competitions are advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank and are open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and other eligible candidates.
Internal lateral moves are common for experienced supply chain professionals already working within the federal public service. If you are currently employed by another federal department, you may apply for DND positions without competing in an open competition, subject to departmental approval.
DND also participates in the Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and the Post-Secondary Recruitment Initiative (PSRI), which provide pathways for students and recent graduates to gain experience in supply chain roles and transition to permanent positions.
Experienced professionals from the private sector can enter through open competitions. When applying, emphasize your supply chain management experience, knowledge of procurement and logistics, leadership accomplishments, and understanding of how your skills transfer to the government context.
Part-Time Options
Part-time opportunities for Manager - Supply Chain Management positions are limited, as this is a full-time managerial role with leadership responsibilities that typically require consistent presence and availability. However, DND is committed to supporting work-life balance and flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible.
Remote and hybrid work options have expanded within the DND civilian workforce. Depending on your specific position and location, you may be eligible for telework arrangements, particularly for administrative and planning aspects of supply chain management. Positions based in Ottawa offer greater flexibility for remote work than those in operational logistics centres.
DND supports flexible scheduling, including compressed work weeks and flexible hours, subject to operational requirements and managerial approval. Employees also have access to leave options including vacation, sick leave, and family-related leave entitlements under the Public Service Labour Relations Act.
For the most current information on flexible work options available for a specific Manager - Supply Chain Management position, consult the job posting or contact the DND Civilian HR Service Centre.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
