Message from your new Deputy Minister

February 09, 2026 - Defences Stories

Defence Team,

It is an honour to join the Department of National Defence (DND) as your new Deputy Minister. This department has a pivotal role to play at a defining point in Canada’s history, and I’m excited to work with you as we deliver on this important agenda. I am particularly grateful for the warm welcome during these early days of my transition, and for your patience and support as I better familiarize myself with the organization and its people, priorities, and processes.

Throughout my federal public service career, I have had opportunities to see National Defence in action. From contributing to the organization of the National Day of Honour (Afghanistan Mission) in May 2014 to working with DND/ Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) on emergency response to First Nations, and most recently, engaging broadly and deeply with Canada’s First Ministers on the important issues of Arctic sovereignty and security, I have witnessed first-hand the vital role that DND/CAF plays in delivering on the Government’s agenda. I am deeply committed to working with all of you to be strategic, nimble, and relentless in doing so.

I recognize this is a period of change for the Defence Team. My priority is to strengthen Canada’s defence and security by supporting our people, modernizing capabilities and infrastructure, reinforcing partnerships, and maintaining readiness in a rapidly evolving global environment. I have deep respect for the expertise and dedication of those serving in both civilian and military roles, and I am committed to working closely with the Chief of the Defence Staff, the Minister of National Defence, and Defence Team leadership to provide coordinated leadership and what you need to succeed.

As I settle into this role, I look forward to meeting many of you, seeing the significant work you do every day, and working together to deliver on an ambitious but critically important agenda.

I look forward to what we will accomplish together.

Christiane Fox
Deputy Minister