Initiating Directive on Transitioning to a Hybrid Workforce

August 15, 2022 - Defence Stories

In response to COVID19 measures lifting across the country, DND is adapting its work environment to align with TBS direction for the Government of Canada. As a result, the DM and CDS have recently released the Initiating Directive on Transitioning to a Hybrid Workforce. This Directive outlines the transition of public service employees to a hybrid workforce, which involves a combination of on-site and remote/telework.

Moving to a hybrid model at DND

DND will formally transition to a hybrid work environment later this fall. A hybrid work model supports the flexibility for onsite and telework preferences while continuing to ensure operational excellence of the institution.

L1s should reference the Initiating Directive on Transitioning to a Hybrid Workforce when considering the flexibility of onsite and telework arrangements. We anticipate the transition for each L1, will be an iterative approach, based on operational needs and requirements.

To support the avaliability of hybrid work spaces, we continue to look at how to repurpose existing office space into neighbourhoods in order to help with collaborative work. The transformation of the office space also involves the identification and implementation of enhancements to our IT infrastructure.

What are the next steps?

Over the coming months, employees and their managers are asked to trial hybrid work arrangements. This will look different for each team – it may mean coming into the workplace one or two days a week, full-time, or for certain hours.  Employees and managers are encouraged to review the guidance criteria for telework and facilitate open discussions with their team to identify options for individual and group activities, that best supports business operations.

In the coming weeks, ADM(HR-Civ) will provide L1s further instructions on how to update their Flexible Work Agreements (FWAs) by introducing a new online form. If accommodations are required, please ensure your manager is aware and requests are directed to the Ergonomic Assessment Services (accessible only on the National Defence network) for employees within the NCR or the Management Services Officer (accessible only on the National Defence network) in the regions.

The health and safety of our employees remains our top priority and leadership will carefully consider the health of Defence Team members, Senior Medical Authority advice, and guidance from regional health authorities.

Your participation and feedback during this trial phase is critical to building our new workplace model. Please share your feedback with your manager and with the Future of Work team. For answers to additional questions you may have, please visit the FAQ: Directive on Transitioning to Hybrid Work web page. You can also submit a new question to the Ask Anything: COVID-19 inbox.

This transition will strengthen the Defence Team workforce by addressing the needs of the future, while supporting our employees at home and in the workplace.