Message from the Deputy Minister and the Chief of the Defence Staff

January 5, 2022 -  Defence Stories

Today, the Prime Minister of Canada announced Deputy Minister Jody Thomas will be the National Security and Intelligence Advisor to the Prime Minister. He also announced Bill Matthews as the next Deputy Minister of National Defence effective January 11, 2022 and Stefanie Beck as the Associate Deputy Minister of National Defence beginning January 31, 2022.

We are delighted to welcome back Bill to National Defence. His knowledge of DND and the Canadian Armed Forces will serve him well as he assumes the helm of the Department at such a critical time in its history. Stefanie’s experience, most recently as Deputy High Commissioner for Canada to the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, will ensure a thoughtful and strategic approach to the challenges facing the institution. They will work in partnership with the Chief of the Defence Staff to strengthen the Defence Team. The Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces are in great hands under their leadership.

Details around a farewell for Deputy Minister Thomas will be shared in the coming days.

Please join us in welcoming Bill and Stefanie to DND/CAF.

Jody Thomas                                        

Deputy Minister 

General Wayne Eyre
Chief of the Defence Staff