As a Relationship Management Advisor with the Department of National Defence, you will build and maintain strategic partnerships that support defence and security objectives. You will work collaboratively with internal stakeholders, external organizations, and government partners to develop mutually beneficial relationships that advance DND priorities. Your work will involve analyzing relationship dynamics, identifying opportunities for partnership, and ensuring alignment between organizational goals and collaborative efforts.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include developing relationship strategies, coordinating engagement activities, monitoring partnership health, and providing advice on relationship issues. You may represent DND at meetings and events, draft communications, prepare briefing materials, and support senior leadership in relationship matters. You will work across multiple departments and levels of government, requiring strong communication and interpersonal skills.
You will work in a professional office environment within DND, typically in Ottawa or at regional offices. This role offers exposure to defence policy, strategic planning, and government operations. You will work regular office hours with a collaborative team that values professional development and contributes to important defence and security initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Perform general relationship management duties within the relationship management function, Prepare reports and documentation as required, Collaborate with team members and stakeholders, Maintain records and ensure compliance with relevant policies
Post-secondary education or equivalent experience relevant to the position
Training
Education: A post-secondary diploma or bachelor's degree in public administration, political science, international relations, business, communications, or a related discipline is typically required. Equivalent work experience in relationship management, stakeholder engagement, or policy development may be considered.
Certifications and Skills: While not mandatory, professional certifications in project management (PMP), change management, or stakeholder engagement can enhance your competitiveness. Strong writing, presentation, and analytical skills are essential. Experience with relationship management tools and Microsoft Office applications is important.
Professional Development: The Public Service offers tuition support, professional development training, and mentorship programs. DND encourages participation in leadership courses, policy development workshops, and external conferences relevant to relationship management and defence priorities. You will have access to Government of Canada learning platforms and may pursue credentials in areas such as governance, negotiation, and strategic communication.
Entry Plans
Most Relationship Management Advisor positions are filled through Public Service Commission competitions advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). Competitions may be open to Canadian citizens or current Public Service employees depending on the staffing situation.
You may enter this career through several pathways: direct application to advertised competitions, lateral movement from related roles in other government departments, or promotion from administrative or junior advisor positions within DND. The Public Service may also use pool-based recruitment to establish lists of qualified candidates for multiple positions.
Student and early-career programs, such as the Post-Secondary Recruitment Program or the DND Intern Program, can provide pathways into the Public Service. If you are already working for DND or another federal department in an administrative or support role, you may be eligible to apply for internal competitions with modified requirements.
To apply, you will need a Canadian citizenship verification, a security clearance (which DND will process), and relevant education or work experience as outlined in the job posting.
Part-Time Options
Part-time opportunities for Relationship Management Advisors are available but may be limited depending on operational needs. Part-time arrangements are typically available at 50% to 80% of full-time hours and are negotiated on a case-by-case basis with your manager.
Flexible work arrangements, including flexible hours and compressed work weeks, are common within DND and are supported by the Public Service. These arrangements allow you to maintain regular office presence while accommodating personal needs.
Remote work options have become increasingly available across the federal government. Depending on your specific duties and manager discretion, you may be able to work from home for portions of your week, though relationship management roles often require in-person engagement and stakeholder meetings. Remote work eligibility is determined during the hiring process and may be negotiated as part of your employment agreement.
DND is committed to supporting work-life balance and modern work arrangements. Discuss specific flexibility options with the hiring manager during the recruitment process, as availability depends on the position's location and operational requirements.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
