As a Director of Strategic Policy, you will lead the development and implementation of strategic policy initiatives that shape Defence and Military operations. You will be responsible for analyzing complex policy issues, evaluating strategic options, and providing evidence-based recommendations to senior leadership. This role requires you to synthesize information from multiple sources, anticipate future challenges, and develop policies that align with government priorities and departmental objectives.
In this position, you will manage a team of policy analysts and specialists, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages critical thinking and innovation. You will represent the Department in interdepartmental discussions, lead policy development projects, and ensure compliance with Treasury Board directives and government-wide standards. Your work will directly influence defence strategy and contribute to national security priorities.
You will work in a fast-paced environment where priorities shift based on government direction and emerging security challenges. The role involves regular interaction with senior executives, other government departments, and external stakeholders. You may be required to prepare briefing materials for senior officials and present policy recommendations to decision-makers at various levels of government.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of strategic policy services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the strategic policy team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Organizational skills, Written and oral communication, MS Office proficiency, Time management, Attention to detail, 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
To qualify for this position, you typically need a university degree from a recognized institution. Many successful candidates hold advanced degrees (Master's degree) in public policy, public administration, political science, economics, business administration, or a related field. Some candidates may have specialized degrees in defence studies, international relations, or security studies.
Professional certifications in project management (PMP, CAPM) or policy analysis are valuable but not always required. The Public Service Commission may require candidates to demonstrate specific competencies through examinations or assessments.
Once hired, you will have access to professional development opportunities including Treasury Board policy training, advanced leadership programs, and specialized courses in policy analysis and strategic planning. The Department supports ongoing learning through conferences, workshops, and educational leave for relevant programs. Many Directors pursue credentials in change management, risk analysis, or advanced data analytics to enhance their effectiveness.
Entry Plans
Entry to the Director - Strategic Policy position typically occurs through open competitions advertised on the Public Service Commission (PSC) website and the Government of Canada Job Bank. Most candidates apply as external applicants or internal Government of Canada employees with relevant experience.
The most common pathway is progression through the Strategic Policy job family—starting at the analyst level and advancing through intermediate positions (Senior Analyst, Policy Advisor, or Manager levels) before applying for Director roles. This progression typically requires 10-15 years of cumulative experience in policy development, research, and analysis.
Lateral movement from other government departments or the private sector is possible if you demonstrate equivalent experience in strategic planning, policy analysis, program administration, or management. Some candidates transition from economics, finance, or program evaluation backgrounds.
The Department occasionally uses specialized recruitment pools for management positions. Candidates may also enter through the Public Service Commission's Management Trainee Program or through lateral appointment if they hold equivalent management credentials and policy experience. All appointments are subject to security clearance requirements, typically requiring a Secret or Top Secret clearance depending on the specific policy areas managed.
Part-Time Options
The Director - Strategic Policy position is typically a full-time, permanent role due to its management responsibilities and the need for continuity in policy development. However, flexible work arrangements are increasingly available within the Department.
Remote and hybrid work options have become more common since 2020, with many policy teams operating on flexible schedules that allow work from home several days per week. The specific arrangement depends on departmental priorities, project requirements, and supervisory approval.
Part-time or job-sharing at the Director level is uncommon but may be negotiated in exceptional circumstances. If you require flexibility, discuss options during the recruitment process with the hiring manager. Compressed work weeks and flexible hours within core business hours may be available depending on operational needs. All flexible arrangements must maintain coverage for leadership responsibilities and interdepartmental coordination.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
