As a Director General in Strategic Policy, you provide senior leadership and strategic direction on government-wide policy issues that affect Defence and military operations. You lead a team of policy advisors, analysts, and subject matter experts who develop, analyze, and recommend policies that shape defence and security strategy. Your work directly influences how the Department of National Defence operates and how Canada approaches its defence commitments. You report to senior executives and regularly engage with other government departments, international partners, and stakeholders to advance Canada's defence policy agenda. This is a senior executive role that requires strong strategic thinking, excellent communication skills, and the ability to manage complex, multi-faceted policy files in a dynamic security environment.
Key Responsibilities
Perform strategic policy duties in support of departmental operations, Prepare correspondence, reports, and administrative documents, Coordinate schedules, meetings, and logistics, Maintain records and filing systems
Required Skills
Organizational skills, Written and oral communication, MS Office proficiency, Time management, Attention to detail, Relevant technical skills, Communication, Teamwork, Problem-solving
Typical Education
Education and experience commensurate with the role requirements
Training
A Director General in Strategic Policy typically holds a university degree in a relevant discipline such as public administration, political science, international relations, defence studies, public policy, or a related field. Many bring advanced degrees such as a Master's degree. Beyond formal education, this role requires extensive professional development throughout your career, including specialized training in policy analysis, government decision-making processes, and leadership. The Public Service offers executive development programs through the Canada School of Public Service and other institutions to help senior managers develop strategic leadership capabilities. Ongoing professional development in areas such as defence policy, national security, geopolitics, and change management supports success in this role. Many Directors General maintain memberships in professional associations and stay current with policy research and international defence developments.
Entry Plans
Entry to the Director General level is typically achieved through a competitive selection process advertised by the Public Service Commission. Most candidates reach this level after progressing through several years of increasingly senior positions within the Public Service, often starting at lower classification levels such as Policy Analyst, Senior Policy Advisor, or Manager positions. The Public Service uses various recruitment methods including open competitions, management category staffing, and executive search processes. Some candidates move laterally from other government departments or agencies, bringing policy expertise and leadership experience. Advanced candidates with significant policy experience in the private sector, academia, or non-governmental organizations may also be considered. There are no formal student entry programs to this level; candidates typically build their careers over 10-15 years or more, progressively taking on greater responsibility and demonstrating executive-level competence.
Part-Time Options
Director General positions are typically full-time, permanent positions due to the senior nature of the role and the requirement to provide ongoing strategic leadership and executive decision-making. However, the Public Service is committed to workplace flexibility where operationally feasible. Remote and hybrid work arrangements may be available depending on operational requirements and departmental policies. Given the senior leadership responsibilities, the strategic nature of the work, and the need for regular engagement with colleagues, ministers' offices, and other stakeholders, most time is spent in the office or attending meetings with senior government officials. Flexible scheduling may be possible to accommodate personal circumstances, but the role's executive nature means you are typically expected to be available for urgent matters and strategic discussions as needed. Specific flexibility options should be discussed during the recruitment and hiring process with the hiring manager and Human Resources.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
