As a Director General - Information Technology (IT) Security, you will provide strategic leadership and executive oversight of IT security programs and initiatives across the Department of National Defence. You will be responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive IT security strategies that protect critical defence infrastructure, data, and systems from evolving cyber threats. This role involves directing teams of security professionals, managing substantial budgets, and collaborating with senior government officials, military leadership, and external partners to ensure the organization meets its security obligations and operational requirements.
In this position, you will lead the development of security policies, standards, and frameworks that align with Government of Canada directives, Treasury Board requirements, and international best practices. You will oversee incident response operations, security assessments, risk management initiatives, and the continuous improvement of security posture across enterprise systems. Your decisions will have significant impact on the Department's ability to protect sensitive information and maintain operational security in an increasingly complex threat environment.
You will work in a dynamic, high-pressure environment where priorities shift with emerging threats and organizational needs. This role requires close coordination with IT leadership, operational commanders, government security agencies, and international defence partners. You will represent DND in senior government committees and engage with Treasury Board, Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, and other federal security bodies.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver it security services supporting GC digital operations, Develop, configure, and maintain IT systems and infrastructure, Troubleshoot technical issues and provide user support, Document technical solutions and maintain system records
Required Skills
Systems administration, Programming/scripting, Network and security, Cloud technologies, ITIL/ITSM practices, 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 computer science, information technology, cybersecurity, engineering, or a related discipline. Many successful candidates hold a master's degree in cybersecurity, business administration, or a specialized IT field.
Professional certifications are highly valued and often required, including: CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), CISM (Certified Information Security Manager), or equivalent advanced security certifications. Many candidates also hold Project Management Professional (PMP) or Program Management Professional credentials.
Extensive professional development is expected throughout your career. DND and the Treasury Board provide training in government security protocols, Treasury Board policies, ITIL practices, and emerging cybersecurity technologies. You will have access to executive leadership programs, advanced certifications, and opportunities to attend national and international security conferences. Ongoing professional development in emerging threats, cloud security, and zero-trust architecture is essential in this rapidly evolving field.
Entry Plans
Entry to this executive position typically occurs through several pathways within the federal Public Service. Most candidates advance through competitive merit-based competitions after gaining 10-15+ years of progressive IT security experience, including several years in senior management roles. Internal DND competitions for Director General positions are advertised on the Government of Canada Job Bank and internally through DND staffing systems.
Many successful candidates begin their federal career at junior IT security levels (IT-01 or IT-02), progress through intermediate and senior technical roles (IT-03 to IT-04), then transition into management streams. Some candidates enter at senior levels through lateral moves from other federal departments or the private sector, where they have demonstrated equivalent security expertise and leadership capability. Executive recruitment may also occur through targeted recruitment initiatives for specialized security expertise.
To qualify for Director General competitions, you must typically demonstrate: significant IT security expertise; proven executive leadership in complex environments; experience with large budgets and diverse teams; knowledge of government security frameworks; and a track record of strategic accomplishment. Candidates are assessed through written exams, technical evaluations, and executive interviews by senior selection boards.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions at DND are typically full-time, as the role requires continuous executive presence and decision-making authority. The position often involves irregular hours, on-call availability for security incidents, and occasional travel for national and international meetings.
While formal part-time arrangements are rare at this executive level, the Department recognizes that some executives may have flexible work arrangements negotiated on a case-by-case basis. Remote work options have expanded within DND, and some work can be performed from home; however, the nature of security leadership requires regular on-site presence for classified work, secure facilities access, and in-person stakeholder engagement.
Executive leave policies, including parental leave and sabbatical options, are available under Treasury Board policies. The Department is committed to supporting work-life balance and wellness among its senior leadership team. Specific arrangements are typically discussed during the hiring process and reviewed in consultation with departmental management.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
