Vice-Admiral Mark Norman becomes Canada's new Vice Chief of the Defence Staff
News Release
August 5, 2016 — Ottawa — National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces
Vice-Admiral Mark Norman today assumed the role of Vice Chief of the Defence Staff (VCDS), the second in command of the Canadian Armed Forces, as Lieutenant-General Guy Thibault retires from the post.
The VCDS is in charge of the broad VCDS group, which coordinates and directs activities to achieve departmental defence policies and strategic objectives. The VCDS is accountable to both the Chief of the Defence Staff and the Deputy Minister of National Defence.
Over more than three decades of dedicated service, Vice-Admiral Norman accumulated immense operational and leadership experience. He began his military career in 1980 as a naval reservist and joined the regular force as a sub-lieutenant in 1985. He was promoted to become Chief of the Naval Staff and Commander Royal Canadian Navy in June 2013.
Lieutenant-General Thibault, who will retire from the Canadian Armed Forces following 38 years of service, has served as VCDS since September 2013. During his tenure, Lieutenant-General Thibault advanced the Defence Renewal agenda, championed the Defence Youth Network, enhanced Defence Security and led the Carling headquarters transformation for Defence.
The change of command ceremony took place at Cartier Square Drill Hall earlier today and was presided by the Chief of the Defence Staff, General Jonathan Vance.
Quotes
“Congratulations and best wishes to Vice-Admiral Norman in his new role as Vice Chief of the Defence Staff. I am sure his sense of drive, professionalism and ethics will maintain strength and direction in the VCDS office. I also want to offer my sincere appreciation to Lieutenant-General Thibault for his strong leadership as VCDS and wish him the best in his retirement.”
Defence Minister Harjit S. Sajjan
“Anyone who knows Lieutenant-General Guy Thibault will understand when I say that it saddens me to say goodbye to a friend and colleague who has devoted his life, and that of his family, to the service of our country over a long and distinguished career spanning 38 years in uniform. I am, however, confident that Vice-Admiral Norman, who assumes the position of Vice Chief of the Defence Staff today, will continue the legacy of strong leadership required to ensure our military continues to thrive and meet the challenges with which we are faced.”
General Jonathan Vance, Chief of the Defence Staff
“Assuming the responsibilities of Vice Chief of the Defence Staff is an exciting and humbling challenge. I am truly honoured to have the trust of the department’s senior leadership to carry out this important function. I look forward to working closely with the Chief of the Defence Staff and the Deputy Minister to enable the success of the Department and the Canadian Armed Forces.”
Vice-Admiral Mark Norman, Vice Chief of the Defence Staff
Quick Facts
The VCDS group is responsible for many facets of the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces, including:
- Chief of Programme;
- Chief of Force Development;
- Canadian Forces Provost Marshall;
- Chief of Reserves and Cadets;
- Defence Security;
- Defence Renewal.
Related Products
Contacts
Media Relations
Department of National Defence
Phone: 613-996-2353
Toll-Free: 1-866-377-0811
Email: mlo-blm@forces.gc.ca
Search for related information by keyword
Hon. Harjit Singh Sajjan National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces Military
Page details
- Date modified: