As a Director of Other Human Resources (HR) Programs, you will lead and manage specialized human resources initiatives that support organizational objectives across the Department of National Defence. In this director-level role, you are responsible for developing HR program strategies, overseeing program implementation, and ensuring alignment with Treasury Board policies and departmental priorities. You will manage teams of HR professionals and collaborate with senior leadership to address complex workforce challenges.
Your responsibilities include directing the planning, development, and delivery of HR programs; managing budgets and resources; ensuring compliance with Treasury Board directives and collective agreements; and monitoring program effectiveness through performance metrics and evaluation. You will serve as a subject matter expert on HR matters and represent the department in external forums when required.
This role operates in a dynamic public sector environment where you will navigate competing organizational priorities, evolving HR legislation, and the need to balance employee support with operational requirements. You will work in an office setting, primarily in Ottawa or other major Canadian centres, with opportunities to collaborate with stakeholders across the department and other government institutions.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of other human resources (hr) programs services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the other human resources (hr) programs 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, 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
Qualifications typically include a bachelor's degree in human resources management, business administration, or a related discipline. Many successful candidates hold professional certifications such as Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) or similar credentials from recognized professional associations. You should have extensive experience in human resources management, preferably including HR program development, strategic planning, and team leadership.
Continuing professional development is encouraged throughout your career. The Public Service offers access to learning opportunities through the Canada School of Public Service, professional HR associations, and departmental training programs. Directors are expected to maintain current knowledge of HR legislation, Treasury Board policies, labour relations, and emerging HR practices. Many professionals pursue advanced certifications, specialized training in areas such as organizational development or compensation management, and leadership development programs to enhance their capabilities.
Entry Plans
Entry to this director-level position typically occurs through federal Public Service competition. Candidates usually come from within the Public Service as HR professionals with several years of progressive experience in human resources roles, often having worked at the senior HR advisor or manager level.
Common pathways include: lateral moves from HR positions in other federal departments; promotion from within DND's HR branch after demonstrating strong performance and leadership capability; or external recruitment through open competitions that attract experienced HR leaders from the private sector or other public service organizations. Some candidates may enter through the Federal Public Service Exchange program or transition from military service into civilian HR roles.
The Public Service Commission manages the competition process and establishes merit criteria based on the job requirements. Candidates must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents and pass a security screening appropriate to the position.
Part-Time Options
Part-time work arrangements for director-level HR positions are limited due to the leadership and strategic nature of the role. However, the federal Public Service does accommodate flexible work arrangements where operationally feasible. Many DND locations offer hybrid work models that allow directors to work from home on certain days while maintaining core office presence for meetings and team leadership.
Flexible scheduling options, such as compressed work weeks, may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis depending on departmental needs and operational requirements. Telework opportunities have expanded in recent years, particularly for administrative and planning tasks, though director-level positions typically require consistent on-site availability for stakeholder engagement and team management.
All federal employees are entitled to unpaid leave options, including parental leave, compassionate leave, and other provisions under the Public Service Labour Relations Act. Benefits and pension plans remain consistent regardless of work arrangement. Interested candidates should discuss specific flexibility options during the recruitment process, as accommodations depend on operational context and departmental priorities.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
