As a Director General of Food Services, you lead and manage a large, complex food services operation serving military personnel and Department of National Defence (DND) employees across multiple locations. You are responsible for strategic planning, policy development, and operational oversight of food services programs that ensure quality nutrition, food safety, and exceptional service delivery. This is a senior executive position where you set the vision and direction for food services within the organization.
Your responsibilities include developing and implementing food services strategies aligned with DND objectives, managing substantial budgets, overseeing staffing and personnel management, ensuring compliance with food safety and health regulations, and maintaining the highest standards of food quality and customer satisfaction. You work collaboratively with other senior leaders across DND, including commanders, facility managers, and administrative staff, to ensure food services support operational readiness and personnel well-being.
You work in a dynamic military environment where food services are essential to operations and morale. Your decisions directly impact the health, satisfaction, and readiness of military personnel. This role offers the opportunity to lead a dedicated team, drive continuous improvement, and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who serve Canada.
Key Responsibilities
Perform food services duties within the commerce, retail services and insurance function, Prepare reports and documentation as required, Collaborate with team members and stakeholders, Maintain records and ensure compliance with relevant policies
Required Skills
Client service, Business acumen, Negotiation, Process management, Communication, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving
Typical Education
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
To qualify for this position, you typically need a bachelor's degree in business administration, hospitality management, food services management, or a related discipline. Many successful candidates hold advanced degrees such as an MBA or specialized credentials in hospitality or institutional management. Professional certifications in food safety, nutrition, or supply chain management are valued.
Ongoing professional development is encouraged and may include executive leadership programs, advanced project management training, and specialized courses in public sector management and policy development. The Government of Canada supports learning and development for executive-level employees through various programs and partnerships with educational institutions. You are expected to stay current with industry best practices, regulatory changes, and emerging trends in food services management.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Director General level typically occurs through several pathways within the federal Public Service. Most candidates advance through competitive internal appointments after demonstrating strong performance in progressively senior food services or related management positions. Some candidates may enter through external competitions when the Government of Canada recruits experienced executives from other sectors or provinces.
You may also enter this career through lateral moves from other Government of Canada departments or agencies where you have developed relevant management and leadership experience. Candidates with extensive private sector experience in food services, hospitality, or large-scale operations management may qualify for external recruitment processes. All appointments at this level require successfully completing a competitive selection process and obtaining appropriate security clearance. Previous experience in military or institutional food services management is highly valued but not always required if you demonstrate equivalent leadership capability and operational management experience.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time, permanent roles due to the strategic and operational responsibilities required. However, flexible work arrangements such as flexible hours or occasional remote work for administrative tasks may be negotiated based on operational needs and departmental policy. The nature of this executive role—requiring presence for leadership, decision-making, and stakeholder engagement—generally necessitates consistent on-site availability.
Government of Canada policies support work-life balance for all employees, and specific accommodations may be discussed with your manager based on individual circumstances. As with all federal positions, you are entitled to standard leave entitlements, including vacation, sick leave, and family-related leave as defined by the Public Service Labour Relations Act and applicable collective agreements or conditions of employment.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
