As a Manager - Tax in the Department of National Defence, you will lead a team responsible for developing, implementing, and administering tax policies and programs that support the department's financial management objectives. You will provide strategic direction on tax-related matters, ensure compliance with federal tax legislation, and represent DND in tax-related discussions with other government departments and external stakeholders. This role requires you to balance complex regulatory requirements with the operational needs of Canada's defence organization.
Your day-to-day responsibilities will include overseeing tax planning and compliance activities, managing team performance and development, preparing briefing materials for senior leadership, and ensuring that DND's tax obligations are met efficiently and effectively. You will work on issues ranging from goods and services tax (GST) implications of defence contracts to income tax considerations for various departmental programs and initiatives.
You will work in a dynamic federal government environment where your decisions directly impact DND's financial operations. This role offers the opportunity to work on matters of national importance while developing your leadership and financial management expertise within Canada's public service.
Key Responsibilities
Plan and manage the delivery of tax services and programs, Supervise and develop staff within the tax team, Monitor performance metrics and report on results, Develop and implement operational plans and procedures, Manage stakeholder relationships and ensure service quality
Required Skills
Financial analysis, Accounting principles (PSAS/IFRS), SAP/financial systems, Budgeting, 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 qualify for this position, you typically need a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, economics, business administration, or a related discipline from a recognized institution. Many successful candidates hold professional accounting designations such as CPA (Chartered Professional Accountant), CA (Chartered Accountant), or CGA (Certified General Accountant).
Professional development is encouraged and supported throughout your career. DND and the Government of Canada offer training in management skills, financial systems, policy development, and specialized tax topics. You may pursue additional certifications in areas such as government accounting standards, Treasury Board policies, or specialized tax law. Internal learning programs, mentoring, and conference attendance help you stay current with evolving tax legislation and best practices in public sector financial management.
Entry Plans
You can enter this career through several pathways within the federal Public Service. The most common route is through open competitions posted on the Government of Canada's Job Bank, where you can apply directly if you meet the stated requirements. Successful candidates at lower classification levels (such as Tax Advisor or Financial Analyst positions) may advance to the Manager - Tax level through promotion competitions or by applying to manager-level positions when they become available.
The Public Service also offers lateral movement opportunities if you have relevant experience in other financial management or policy roles within DND or other government departments. Some candidates transition into tax management from related fields such as financial analysis, audit, or procurement. The Federal Student Work Experience Program (FSWEP) and Post-Secondary Recruitment Campaign (PSRC) can provide entry points for recent graduates seeking to begin their public service careers in financial management roles, with potential to advance into management positions.
Part-Time Options
Depending on operational requirements and team needs, part-time and flexible work arrangements may be available for the Manager - Tax position. While managerial roles typically require consistent full-time presence due to leadership and decision-making responsibilities, many DND workplaces have adopted flexible scheduling, compressed work weeks, and hybrid work models that combine office and remote work.
Remote work options have expanded across the Government of Canada, and many tax and financial management functions can be performed effectively from home or from alternative work locations. Specific arrangements depend on your team's mandate, your supervisor's approval, and the nature of your duties. We encourage you to discuss flexible work options during the recruitment process and with your manager once hired. DND is committed to supporting work-life balance while maintaining service delivery to support Canada's defence mission.
Related Careers
No related military careers on file for this position.
