As a Director of Information Technology Security, you lead the development, implementation, and oversight of comprehensive security strategies across Department of National Defence (DND) information systems and networks. You provide strategic direction to IT security teams, establish security policies and standards, and ensure the protection of sensitive defence information against evolving cyber threats. This senior leadership role requires you to balance security requirements with operational needs, manage security budgets, and report to senior defence leadership on the security posture of critical systems.
Your responsibilities include developing IT security architectures, overseeing vulnerability assessments and penetration testing programs, managing incident response protocols, and ensuring compliance with Government of Canada security standards and international best practices. You collaborate with other government departments, allied nations, and industry partners to address emerging cyber threats. You mentor and develop security professionals within your team, foster a security-conscious culture across the department, and stay current with rapidly evolving threat landscapes and technologies.
You work in a complex, dynamic environment where decisions directly impact national security. The role demands strategic thinking, strong communication skills, and the ability to influence at the executive level. You may work standard office hours, though cyber security incidents and critical operations may require flexibility in your schedule.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of it security services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the it security team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Systems administration, Programming/scripting, Network and security, Cloud technologies, ITIL/ITSM practices, Team leadership, Operational planning, Stakeholder engagement, Results management
Typical Education
Bachelor's degree or equivalent; significant experience in the relevant discipline with demonstrated leadership
Training
Typically, you will have a bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related field. Many successful candidates also hold a master's degree in IT Security, Business Administration, or a related discipline. Professional certifications are highly valued and may include CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), CISM (Certified Information Security Manager), CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker), or relevant security+ certifications. You should demonstrate substantial experience in IT security roles, preferably including 10+ years in progressively senior positions, with a minimum of 5 years in management or leadership roles.
The Government of Canada supports continuous professional development through security clearance maintenance, attendance at industry conferences, participation in government security forums, and access to professional development programs. Many employees pursue additional certifications throughout their careers to stay current with evolving threats and technologies. DND provides opportunities to develop leadership competencies through management training, executive coaching, and participation in defence-wide security initiatives. You will be expected to maintain a Top Secret security clearance and may pursue higher clearance levels depending on your responsibilities.
Entry Plans
Entry to this position typically occurs through one of several pathways. Most commonly, you would apply for a Public Service Commission competition advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca). These competitions may be open to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and other eligible groups depending on the specific posting. Many candidates enter at lower IT Security classifications first (such as IT Security Analyst or IT Security Specialist positions) and advance through promotions as they gain experience and demonstrate leadership capability.
Lateral moves from other federal departments are common, particularly from Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) officers or non-commissioned members with IT security experience who are transitioning to civilian roles. Some candidates come from the RCMP, CSE (Communications Security Establishment), or other government security agencies. If you are currently a Public Service employee in another department, you may be eligible for deployment or interchange agreements. Students or early-career professionals may enter the IT Security career stream through the Federal Student Work Experience Program or graduate recruitment initiatives, then progress to director-level positions over time. Networking within DND and attending recruitment events can help you learn about upcoming opportunities.
Part-Time Options
This director-level position is typically offered on a full-time, permanent basis. However, the Government of Canada is increasingly supportive of flexible work arrangements. Many DND IT Security directors work from a hybrid model, combining office-based and remote work, particularly for strategic planning and administrative tasks. Some policy work and meetings can be conducted virtually, allowing for flexibility in your location.
Full part-time positions at the director level are rare, as the role requires consistent senior leadership and presence for decision-making and stakeholder engagement. However, job-sharing arrangements may be possible in some circumstances, and compressed work weeks or flexible schedules might be negotiated depending on operational needs and management approval. Remote work options have expanded, especially for roles that do not require daily presence in secure facilities. Any flexible arrangement would be discussed during the hiring process and established in collaboration with your manager. Life-cycle benefits such as parental leave, unpaid leave, and other provisions available to federal employees would apply to your employment.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
