President, Canadian Space Agency

The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) is a federal agency responsible for managing all of Canada's civil space-related activities. The Canadian Space Agency (CSA) is responsible for: advancing the knowledge of space through science; and using its discoveries for the good of Canadians and all of humanity.

The CSA focuses its activities and resources on three main areas:

Space exploration: Participation in astronaut missions, astronomy and planetary studies, scientific research in space (execution and support).

Space utilization: Earth observation by satellite and collection of space data.

Space science and technology: Development of innovative space technologies and applications used on Earth.

The President is the chief executive officer of the organization and has supervision over and direction of the ongoing work of the organization and its staff.

This role requires knowledge of, and experience in, Canada’s science, research and innovation ecosystem, collaborative research activities, and federal support for science and research in
Canada. Knowledge of the workings of the science and innovation agendas of the Government of Canada and provinces would also be an asset.

Diversity and Official Languages

The Government of Canada will consider bilingual proficiency and diversity in assessing applicants. You are therefore encouraged to include in your online profile your ability to speak and understand your second official language. Preference may be given to applicants who are members of one or more of the following groups: women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and members of a visible minority group.

Education and Experience

• A degree from a recognized university in a relevant field of study such as public administration, science, engineering or business; or an acceptable combination of equivalent education, job-related training or experience;


• Executive level management experience involving the development and implementation of strategic initiatives, ideally acquired within a large, complex private or public sector organization;


• Experience in strategic management and management techniques which promote good corporate governance and improve organizational performance;


• Extensive corporate leadership experience at the senior executive level, including managing human and financial resources;


• Experience dealing with senior government officials and managing successful stakeholder relationships and complex partnerships both nationally and/or internationally;


• Experience in managing complex high-risk projects on time and within budget would be considered an asset;


• Experience in linking science and technological development with commercial applications would be considered an asset; and


• Experience in the space, defence or aerospace industries would also be considered an asset.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of the mandate, programs, legislative framework and activities of CSA;


• Knowledge of the federal government and public policy environments, especially in respect of science, research and innovation;


• Financial literacy;


• Broad knowledge of Canada’s economic and social fabric, the role of its science and technology infrastructure and the role of research and development in addressing the challenges and opportunities facing the nation;


• Knowledge and understanding of the principles of sound governance and business practices, including human resources and financial management, strategic corporate planning, monitoring, reporting, and evaluation of corporate performance;


• Knowledge of the Canadian space sector, aerospace industries, their strengths and the challenges they face;


• Knowledge of the role of international space science and technology collaborations and partnerships in enhancing Canada’s space program;


• A deep understanding of the operations and needs of Canada’s science, research and innovation community and the Government of Canada’s science and innovation agenda;


• Ability to develop and maintain effective relationships with post-secondary stakeholders and with government and industry partners, to support ecosystems across the country and multidisciplinary research; and


• Superior communication skills, both written and oral, and ability to manage communications with a variety of stakeholders, including the media, ministers, parliamentary committees, other government representatives, the public, the research community, and the private sector.

Language Requirements

Proficiency in both official languages would be preferred.

• Strategic and innovative leader


• Sound judgment


• High ethical standards and integrity


• Superior interpersonal skills


• Tact and diplomacy


• Initiative

Eligibility Factors and Conditions of Employment

• Appointees must comply with the Ethical and Political Activity Guidelines for Public Office Holders throughout their appointment as a term and condition of employment. The guidelines are available on the Governor in Council Appointments website under the Forms and reference material.


• All appointees are subject to the Conflicts of Interest Act. Public office holders appointed on a full-time basis must also submit to the Office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics within 60 days of appointment, a confidential report in which they disclose all of their assets, liabilities and outside activities. For more information, please visit the Office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner's website.


• Appointees must uphold the highest standards of probity and are expected to demonstrate behaviours in the workplace that afford respect, equality and dignity, to everyone they interact with at work at all times. The Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector outlines the values and expected behaviours for public servants, including valuing diversity and creating workplaces free from harassment and discrimination. Governor in Council appointees are expected to uphold and respect these values and principles in a positive and active manner.


• Preference may be given to applicants who reside in or are willing to relocate to Saint-Hubert, Quebec (region of Montreal), or to a location within a reasonable commuting distance. A significant amount of time will be required on location at CSA headquarters.


• If you are appointed to this position, you must be prepared to travel extensively across Canada and internationally.

A link to this notice will be placed in the Canada Gazette to assist the Governor in Council in identifying qualified candidates. It is not, however, intended to be the sole means of recruitment. A list of qualified candidates may be established and may be used for similar opportunities.

How to Apply

Review of applications will begin on April 8, 2020. Candidates must apply online via the Governor in Council Appointments website. Candidates are strongly encouraged to submit their applications by this date. After this date, your application will be retained and may be considered up until an appointment to the position is made. Your cover letter should be addressed to the Deputy Director of Selection Processes, Senior Personnel Secretariat, Privy Council Office, and should be sent only through the online application.

Instructions on how to apply for an appointment opportunity can be found on the Governor in Council Appointments website.