Veterans’ Ombudsman, Office of the Veterans' Ombudsperson

The Veterans' Ombudsman investigates individual complaints and systemic issues relating to programs and services delivered by or on behalf of Veterans Affairs Canada to ensure that Veterans and their families are treated fairly and have access to the programs and services that contribute to their wellbeing.

As an impartial and independent officer reporting directly to the Minister of Veterans Affairs, the Ombudsman plays an important role in raising awareness of the needs and concerns of Veterans and their families, while working to ensure their fair treatment in accordance with the Order in Council that created the office (2007-0530) and the Veterans Bill of Rights.

Further details about the organization and its activities can be found on the Office of the Veterans Ombudsman’s website.

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 or an acceptable combination of equivalent education, training and job-related experience;


• Experience in fields such as, but not limited to, military, policing, Veterans’ advocacy and Ombudsmanry;


• Experience building and sustaining effective relationships with a wide range of stakeholders;


• Experience advising and collaborating with senior officials, administrators and/or executives to identify and resolve complex issues;


• Experience leading initiatives in a dynamic public environment; and


• Experience in leading change management.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of Veterans Affairs Canada’s mandate, accountabilities, programs and activities;


• Knowledge of public policy issues and challenges relating to Veterans;


• Knowledge of the principles of natural justice;


• Strong leadership skills, and demonstrated commitment to promote and adhere to the principles of openness, transparency and diversity;


• Ability to anticipate and address emerging issues of political and/or public concern;


• Ability to address and review complaints;


• Ability to make recommendations and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, preferably in both official languages; and


• Ability to engage a variety of stakeholders, including Veterans groups, parliamentary committees and the media.

Language Requirements

Proficiency in both official languages would be preferred.

• High ethical standards, integrity and fairness


• Sound judgment


• Superior interpersonal and communication skills


• Tact and diplomacy

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.


• If you are appointed to this position, you must reside in or be willing to relocate to the National Capital Region or Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, or to a location within a reasonable commuting distance.


• If you are appointed to this position, you must be willing to travel between the above locations, 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 September 30, 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.