As a Manager of Workplace Well-Being within the Department of National Defence, you will lead the development and implementation of comprehensive programs designed to support the physical, mental, and social health of our civilian workforce. You will work collaboratively with Human Resources, occupational health and safety teams, and senior leadership to create a positive workplace culture that promotes employee engagement and reduces workplace risks. This role involves analyzing workplace trends, identifying gaps in current well-being initiatives, and designing evidence-based solutions that align with departmental priorities and Treasury Board policies.
In this position, you will manage a team of specialists and coordinators who deliver well-being programs and services across multiple locations. Your responsibilities include budget management, program evaluation, stakeholder engagement, and ensuring compliance with Treasury Board directives and relevant legislation. You will report to senior HR leadership and serve as a subject matter expert on workplace well-being best practices within the federal public service.
You will work in a dynamic environment that values both in-person collaboration and virtual teamwork. The role requires strong communication skills, as you will regularly present findings to senior management, liaise with external partners, and engage with employees at all levels across the organization.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of workplace well-being services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the workplace well-being 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
You should have a university degree in Human Resources Management, Psychology, Public Health, or a related field. Many successful candidates hold a Master's degree or relevant professional certifications such as the Canadian HR Professional (CHRP) designation, Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP), or certifications in occupational health and safety. The Treasury Board of Canada and DND support ongoing professional development through access to HR courses, well-being certifications, and specialized training in change management, program evaluation, and mental health awareness. You will be expected to maintain current knowledge of federal workplace policies, Treasury Board directives, and emerging best practices in workplace well-being. Language requirements typically include proficiency in English and French to varying degrees depending on the posting.
Entry Plans
Entry into this role typically occurs through one of several pathways within the federal public service. You may apply to a direct competition for the Manager - Workplace Well-Being position when DND posts a vacancy. Alternatively, you might enter through a Human Resources Manager pool or competition, which allows placement into this or similar positions across the public service. Lateral moves from other HR management roles within DND or other federal departments are common, particularly if you have demonstrated expertise in workplace well-being, employee relations, or organizational development. The Public Service Commission manages most competitions and maintains eligibility lists for qualified candidates. Some candidates transition into this role after working in coordinator or specialist positions within workplace well-being programs. Veterans and members of designated equity groups may have access to specific recruitment initiatives. It is recommended that you monitor the DND careers page and the Government of Canada job board (jobs.gc.ca) for current postings.
Part-Time Options
Depending on operational needs and departmental approval, this managerial position may offer flexible work arrangements including hybrid work models that combine remote work with in-person collaboration at DND offices. Part-time or reduced-hour management positions are less common at this level but may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis with your supervisor and HR branch. Many aspects of this role—including program research, analysis, and report writing—can be performed remotely, though some responsibilities such as team meetings, stakeholder engagement, and program launches may require in-person presence. The extent of flexibility available will be discussed during the hiring process and will depend on the specific needs of the workplace well-being function within your assigned location.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
