As a Manager of Administrative Support in the Department of National Defence, you will lead and supervise a team of administrative professionals who provide essential support services to military and civilian personnel. You will be responsible for planning, organizing, and directing administrative operations that keep our organization running smoothly, ensuring that all office functions operate efficiently and effectively. Your team may handle tasks such as scheduling, correspondence, records management, filing systems, and general office administration across DND facilities and headquarters. You will work in a dynamic environment where your leadership directly impacts the productivity and morale of your team and the broader organization. Your role bridges military and civilian operations, requiring you to understand both Defence culture and civilian Public Service practices.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of administrative support services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the administrative support team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Organizational skills, Written and oral communication, MS Office proficiency, Time management, Attention to detail, People management, Operational oversight, Quality assurance, Resource coordination
Typical Education
Post-secondary education in the relevant field; supervisory and operational management experience
Training
To succeed in this role, you will typically need a secondary school diploma (high school graduation) as a minimum requirement, though many successful candidates have completed post-secondary education in business administration, public administration, or a related field. Professional certifications in administrative management, office management, or project management are valued but not always required. The Government of Canada supports ongoing professional development through access to learning platforms, management training programs, and leadership courses. You may pursue certifications through recognized organizations such as the Canadian Office Management Association. DND also provides internal training on government systems, policies, security protocols, and management practices specific to Defence operations. Many managers complete formal management training programs offered through the Public Service Commission or DND's own Professional Development Centre to strengthen leadership and decision-making skills.
Entry Plans
Entry into this manager-level position typically occurs through one of several pathways within the federal Public Service. Most candidates progress through competitive staffing processes from lower-level administrative positions within DND or other government departments, bringing several years of relevant experience. External candidates may apply through open competitions announced on the Government of Canada Job Bank. Some individuals transition laterally from similar administrative management roles in other federal departments or agencies. If you are already working in the Public Service at the Administrative Support level, you can apply for manager competitions as they are posted. DND also considers recent graduates through targeted recruitment initiatives or bridging programs. Advancement from administrative officer or coordinator positions after demonstrating strong performance and leadership potential is a common pathway. Veterans transitioning to civilian roles may have streamlined entry opportunities depending on their military experience and qualifications.
Part-Time Options
Part-time and flexible work arrangements for Manager - Administrative Support positions vary depending on operational requirements and DND priorities. While managerial roles typically require full-time commitment due to supervisory responsibilities and the need for consistent leadership presence, some flexibility may be negotiated on a case-by-case basis. Many DND locations now offer hybrid work arrangements that combine on-site and remote work, particularly for administrative management functions that do not require constant facility presence. Flexible scheduling such as compressed work weeks or adjusted start/end times may be available to accommodate personal circumstances, subject to operational needs. The extent of flexibility depends on your specific work location, team requirements, and approval from your management chain. Remote work options have expanded across DND for administrative roles that can be performed effectively outside traditional offices. When considering this career, discuss work arrangement possibilities during your application process or with the hiring manager, as options differ by location and service delivery requirements.
