As a Director General - Insurance, you will lead and manage insurance operations and risk management initiatives across the Department of National Defence. In this executive role, you are responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive insurance policies, strategies, and programs that protect departmental assets and personnel. You will oversee a team of insurance professionals, manage substantial budgets, and ensure compliance with Treasury Board directives and federal regulations. Your work directly impacts the department's financial security and operational resilience. You will work in a collaborative environment with other senior managers, collaborate with Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat, and engage with external insurance providers and stakeholders. This position requires strong strategic thinking, financial acumen, and the ability to influence policy at senior levels of government. You will balance competing priorities while maintaining the highest standards of professional and ethical conduct.
Key Responsibilities
Perform insurance 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 Director General position, you typically need a bachelor's degree in commerce, business administration, finance, or a related discipline. Many successful candidates hold advanced degrees such as an MBA or equivalent. Professional designations such as Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP), Certified Insurance Executive (CIE), or Certified Risk Manager (CRM) are highly valued and often expected. You should have comprehensive knowledge of federal financial management, Treasury Board policies, and government procurement regulations. Ongoing professional development is expected, including participation in executive leadership programs, insurance industry conferences, and advanced financial management training. The Government of Canada supports continuous learning through various professional development initiatives and tuition reimbursement programs for qualifying certifications.
Entry Plans
Entry to this Director General level typically occurs through external executive recruitment processes or promotion from senior manager positions (EX-02 or equivalent). The Public Service Commission conducts rigorous competitions that assess executive competencies including strategic leadership, financial management, and change management. Some candidates advance through the ranks from lower levels within the insurance career stream, progressing through positions such as Insurance Officer and Senior Insurance Advisor. Lateral moves from related financial management or risk management roles in other departments are also common pathways. Executive experience in the private sector insurance industry can be valuable, and the Government of Canada considers extensive relevant experience in competitive selection processes. These competitions are advertised on the Government of Canada Jobs website and require submission of detailed applications demonstrating your executive capabilities and strategic accomplishments.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time, permanent positions requiring your commitment to the executive leadership role. However, the Government of Canada recognizes work-life balance as important and has implemented flexible work arrangements across the Public Service. Depending on departmental needs and your role's requirements, you may have opportunities to negotiate flexible hours or remote work options for certain duties. Compressed work weeks or flexible scheduling may be possible for some administrative tasks, though the nature of executive leadership and strategic decision-making responsibilities generally requires your presence for meetings, briefings, and in-person consultations. Specific flexibility options are determined through discussion with your director and the department, taking into account operational requirements. The Public Service also offers other supports such as leave options, employee assistance programs, and wellness initiatives to support overall work-life integration at the executive level.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.