Managers - Strategic Policy are senior professionals responsible for developing, coordinating, and implementing strategic policy initiatives that support Defence and military operations. Working within the Department of National Defence (DND), these managers lead policy teams to analyze complex defence and security challenges, conduct evidence-based research, and provide recommendations to senior leadership. Your work directly influences how Canada's defence priorities are shaped and executed at the national level.
In this role, you will manage a team of policy analysts and subject matter experts, oversee policy development projects from conception through implementation, and ensure alignment with government priorities and departmental objectives. You will prepare briefing materials, policy papers, and strategic recommendations for senior managers and government officials. Your responsibilities include budget management, resource planning, stakeholder coordination across multiple departments and agencies, and monitoring the effectiveness of implemented policies.
You will work in a dynamic, fast-paced environment where priorities can shift based on national security needs and political direction. The work demands strong analytical capabilities, sound judgment, and the ability to communicate complex policy issues clearly to diverse audiences. Most positions are located in Ottawa, though some opportunities may exist in other Canadian cities.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of strategic policy services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the strategic policy 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
A bachelor's degree from a recognized university is required, preferably in public policy, public administration, economics, political science, international relations, or a related field. Many managers in this career hold a master's degree in policy studies, business administration (MBA), or a specialized area relevant to defence and security.
Certifications in project management (PMP or similar), government budgeting, or policy analysis are valuable assets. Within DND, you may pursue professional development in defence studies, security policy, and advanced leadership through the Canadian Armed Forces College, the University of Defence Management, or accredited external institutions.
The Government of Canada supports ongoing learning through various programs including Executive Development initiatives, policy institutes, and interdepartmental training. You are expected to maintain current knowledge of government policy frameworks, Treasury Board directives, and emerging defence and security trends throughout your career.
Entry Plans
You typically enter the Manager - Strategic Policy career through a federal public service competition, which may be advertised as a Public Service Commission (PSC) staffing process. These competitions are open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents and are posted on the Government of Canada Jobs website (jobs.gc.ca).
Many managers advance into this role from a Policy Analyst or Senior Policy Analyst position within DND or other federal departments through internal promotion competitions. If you have relevant experience in the private sector, academia, or other organizations, you may enter as a lateral appointment if you meet equivalency requirements.
The Government of Canada also offers student internship programs and co-op placements through Post-Secondary Recruitment, which can provide a pathway to permanent positions. Candidates from the Canadian Armed Forces (military and civilian) may transition into policy management roles through internal DND competitions or integrated recruitment processes that recognize your defence experience.
Part-Time Options
Full-time permanent positions are the standard for Managers - Strategic Policy roles due to the managerial responsibilities and senior-level contributions required. However, the Government of Canada is increasingly flexible with work arrangements.
Many DND policy positions offer hybrid work options, allowing you to work remotely for part of the week while maintaining an office presence for collaboration, meetings, and team leadership. Specific arrangements depend on operational needs and are negotiated with your manager and the department. Remote work eligibility has expanded across the Public Service, though managers may be expected to be on-site more frequently than individual contributors for team supervision and coordination.
Job sharing and part-time work are rarely available at the managerial level due to the continuity and leadership requirements of the role, but you may explore flexible hours, compressed work weeks, or other arrangements on a case-by-case basis during recruitment or during your tenure if circumstances change. Family-friendly benefits including parental leave, leave without pay, and sabbaticals are available under Treasury Board policies and DND collective agreements.
