Government of Canada / Gouvernement du Canada

Director - Tax

NOC 40011 Tax Director or equivalent Non-Digital
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Overview

As a Director - Tax, you will lead strategic tax policy development and administration for the Department of National Defence. You will oversee a team of tax professionals who manage complex tax compliance, planning, and advisory matters for the department. This role involves directing initiatives that ensure DND's tax obligations are met efficiently while supporting the broader financial management objectives of the organization. Your responsibilities will include developing and implementing tax strategies, managing relationships with Canada Revenue Agency and other government bodies, overseeing tax risk management, and ensuring compliance with federal tax legislation. You will also provide expert advice to senior management on tax implications of departmental decisions, programs, and activities. Your work environment will involve both strategic planning and operational oversight, collaborating with colleagues across finance, legal, and program delivery teams. This position requires strong analytical skills, knowledge of government financial systems, and the ability to manage complex, multi-faceted tax matters. You will work in an office-based environment in the National Capital Region, with opportunities to engage with stakeholders across the federal government and external tax authorities.

Key Responsibilities

Plan and manage the delivery of tax services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the tax team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality

Required Skills

Financial analysis, Accounting principles (PSAS/IFRS), SAP/financial systems, Budgeting, 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 will typically need a university degree in accounting, finance, economics, law, or a related field. Many successful candidates hold professional accounting designations such as Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), which is highly valued. Some positions may require or prefer a law degree or Master's degree in taxation or related disciplines. Professional development opportunities are available through the Public Service Learning Common and departmental programs. You may pursue advanced tax certifications, leadership development courses, and specialized training in government financial management systems. The Canada School of Public Service offers courses in policy development, financial analysis, and senior management skills. Continuous professional education through accounting bodies and tax associations is encouraged to maintain currency in tax law and best practices.

Entry Plans

Entry to this Director-level position typically occurs through external staffing competitions open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. These competitions assess your experience in tax management, financial leadership, and government administration. You must have progressive experience in tax roles, usually a minimum of 8-10 years, with several years in senior tax or financial management positions. Internal candidates within the Public Service may advance to this role through promotion from Senior Analyst or Manager-level tax positions within DND or other government departments. Lateral moves from other government departments with comparable financial management or tax experience are common. The department may also recruit experienced tax professionals from the private sector through open competitions. Formal application processes include submission of a detailed curriculum vitae, assessment of technical competencies, and interviews with senior management. Some positions may be filled through public service talent pools or executive recruitment initiatives.

Part-Time Options

Part-time and flexible work arrangements are available for Director-level positions, subject to operational requirements and approval by senior management. Given the strategic and leadership nature of the role, full-time commitment is typical; however, telework arrangements are negotiable for certain duties. Many Directors in tax and financial management roles work on a hybrid basis, combining office time for meetings and team leadership with remote work for analysis, policy development, and report preparation. Flexible hours may be arranged to accommodate work-life balance while ensuring adequate coverage for departmental needs and stakeholder engagement. Job sharing is rarely available at the Director level due to the continuity and accountability required in the role. Any alternative work arrangements must be discussed and approved through the hiring manager and departmental HR policies. Remote work eligibility depends on the specific duties, security requirements, and departmental guidelines in effect at the time of hire.