Aspiring Directors Program

Effective October 1, 2025, holding a valid Authority Delegation Certificate will become a pre-requisite for participants in the Aspiring Directors Program (ADP) who are in the core public administration (departments and agencies listed in Schedules I and IV of the Financial Administration Act). Please consult the frequently asked questions to learn more.

Talent management is about ensuring that people are matched to the right job for their skills, competencies, and career plans. The Aspiring Directors Program (ADP) is a career transition program that allows managers with talent management plans to explore what it means to be an executive in the federal public service. Participants will examine self-awareness and other competencies that are critical to the success of executives in the federal public service and discuss their experiences with a trusted network of their peers.

About the program

The Aspiring Directors Program (ADP) provides an opportunity for managers with talent management plans and at the EX minus one level to experience the realities of being an executive in the federal public service.

How do participants benefit?

Deepen self-awareness: Participants reflect on their leadership style to identify areas for growth and enhance their effectiveness.
Strengthen executive readiness: Participants evaluate their alignment with the mindset, skillset, and toolset needed for success in the executive cadre.
Build leadership skills: Participants strengthen their self-management and team-building capabilities to drive change.
Enhance peer networks: Participants connect with like-minded professionals to broaden their networks and foster collaboration.

This unique program draws on the expertise of the School's faculty and invited guest speakers with real-world experience in working at the executive level. Together, they will assist participants in developing and applying the leadership competencies and self-management skills that are needed to meet the evolving demands placed on public service executives.

The ADP is offered in three phases. Two phases are delivered in person in a classroom setting and one phase includes both online and independent learning.

Eligibility

Participants must have a talent management plan as part of their Performance Management Agreement (PMA) and occupy a substantive position at the EX minus 1 level to be eligible for nomination to the program. It is recommended that participants have experience in human resource management.

Prerequisite: Hold a valid Authority Delegation Training certificate for employees in the core public administration (departments and agencies listed in Schedules I and IV of the Financial Administration Act).

Application process

Interested learners are encouraged to contact their departmental learning coordinator to be considered for the program and to learn about internal nomination processes. Use the Contact us button at the bottom of the page to obtain more information about the program.

Program phases

Phase 1: Three days in class

Increase your self-awareness to become a better leader

Participants will deepen their self-awareness and their understanding of their personal leadership strengths, challenges and potential. As they start to build their peer network, they will focus on:

Key Leadership Competencies required at the executive level
emotional intelligence
communication skills
executive well-being
inclusive leadership

Phase 2: Three months of self-directed learning

Reflect on individual goals and begin to assess your readiness to transition into an executive role

Participants will gain further insights into the executive role and enhance their knowledge on government priorities such as Truth and Reconciliation, and Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. They will focus on:

additional assignments and online activities to further enhance the development of the Key Leadership Competencies needed at the executive level
crafting a development plan and a self-narrative to guide their leadership growth with purpose and authenticity
identifying and observing a leader (EX-01 to EX-03)

Phase 3: Two days in class

Reflect on your leadership future

Participants will gain insight into senior management expectations of new executives and develop an appreciation of the multiple dimensions of leadership. They will focus on:

reflecting on the most important insights gained from observing a leader
exploring the role of values and ethics in responsible leadership
preparing for an EX selection process while applying the director-level Key Leadership Competencies

Frequently asked questions

Aspiring Directors Program: Frequently asked questions

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Date modified:: 2025-06-17

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