Ombudsperson, Office of the Ombudsperson for National Defence and Canadian Forces

The Office of the Ombudsperson is an independent organization with its mandate set out in the Ministerial Directives respecting the Ombudsman for the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Forces.

The Ombudsperson investigates complaints and serves as a neutral third party on matters related to the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Forces by providing information, referral, and education for the members and employees of the Department. The Ombudsperson acts independently of the chain of command and managers and reports directly to the Minister of National Defence.

Diversity and Official Languages

We are committed to providing a healthy and accessible workplace that supports one’s dignity, self-esteem and the ability to achieve one’s full potential. With this in mind, all appointees will be expected to take steps to promote and maintain a healthy, respectful, inclusive and harassment-free work environment.

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.

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.

Education and Experience

• A degree from a recognized university in a relevant field of study, or a combination of equivalent education, job-related training and experience;


• A degree in law would be considered an asset;


• Management experience, preferably at the senior executive level, in a public or private sector organization, including managing financial and human resources;


• Decision-making experience with respect to sensitive issues;


• Experience in carrying out comprehensive impartial investigations and the mediation of complaints; and


• Experience in authorizing high-profile investigative audits, reviews and reports, and military service would be considered an asset.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge and understanding of the role, responsibilities and mandate of the Office of the Ombudsman and its relationship to the Canadian Forces, the Department of National Defence, the Minister of National Defence, the Parliament and the Government of Canada;


• Knowledge of military organizations and their operations and procedures;


• Knowledge of basic principles and the role more generally of an ombudsperson;


• Broad knowledge and understanding of investigative practices and processes;


• Knowledge of the principles of administrative law and natural justice would be considered an asset;


• Superior communication skills, both written and oral;


• Ability to develop and maintain effective liaisons with military leaders, government officials, the defence community, stakeholder groups and external agencies;


• Ability to apply analytical, interpretative and evaluative thinking to situations;


• Ability to develop comprehensive communications strategies, including outreach and networking activities;


• Ability to bring about positive and lasting change at a cultural, individual and organizational level; and


• Ability to act as spokesperson in dealing with the media, public institutions, governments, other organizations, and people from both military and civilian backgrounds.

Language Requirements

Proficiency in both official languages would be preferred.

• High ethical standards, integrity, and impartiality


• Superior interpersonal skills


• Sound judgment


• Tact and discretion


• Strong leadership and managerial skills

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 Forms and reference material.


• All appointees will be subject to the Conflict 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 Commissioner, 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 behaviors 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 behaviors 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.


• The appointee must reside in or be willing to relocate to the National Capital Region, or to a location within reasonable commuting distance.


• The appointee must be willing to travel across Canada and internationally.


• The appointee must obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.

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 (more information here) will begin on October 15, 2024. Candidates should 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 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.