Managing Director, Defence

Invest Nova Scotia empowers businesses of all sizes to leverage the province’s natural advantages and deliver world-class solutions for Canada and global markets, focusing on three key areas of economic growth: investment attraction, start-up and scale-up, and export and market diversification. This is a rare opportunity to be a part of Nova Scotia’s economic success story, turning local potential into lasting prosperity.

As a provincial crown corporation reporting to the Department of Growth and Development, Invest Nova Scotia’s team is as innovative and energetic as the clients we serve. We are a client and people-centric organization, and we care deeply about the work we do, guided by our values and our passion to help the companies we work with grow and succeed.

As Managing Director, Defence, you will position Nova Scotia as a national and global leader in the defence sector, attracting investment, driving economic growth, and creating high-value jobs across the province. Reporting to the Vice President, Investment Attraction, you will provide strategic oversight and cultivate executive-level relationships to ensure Nova Scotia is recognized as a premier jurisdiction for defence and innovation. This senior leadership role requires deep sector knowledge, proven experience building strategic partnerships, and the ability to navigate complex stakeholder environments, translating defence priorities into real investment and growth opportunities.

Guided by the new national Defence Industrial Strategy and the Industrial and Technological Benefits Policy, you will seize opportunities to expand Nova Scotia’s defence sector for decades. From supporting prime contractors to win more contracts, to growing supply chain participation, advancing dual-use technologies, and promoting the province’s research and development strengths, you will shape and execute high-profile initiatives with impact at home and abroad. Acting as both a senior advisor and ambassador, you will influence industry dialogue, inform government decision-making, and unlock opportunities for business growth in all regions of Nova Scotia.

The ideal candidate has at least 15 years of leadership experience in the defence sector or related fields, a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline, experience with maintaining a robust and accurate pipeline of opportunities within a CRM and demonstrated experience in managing a sales quota and achieving targets. A master’s degree is considered an asset. With deep subject matter expertise in defence opportunities for Canada and a strong understanding of Nova Scotia’s unique strengths, the Managing Director brings exceptional strategic thinking, business acumen, and the ability to align sector strategies with broader provincial and federal priorities. Known for their ability to influence at the highest levels, they are a collaborative leader, skilled negotiator, and trusted partner with demonstrated success forging alliances across government, industry, and international networks. This is a rare opportunity to shape the province’s defence future, drive investment, and create lasting economic impact.

Explore more about Invest Nova Scotia at: investnovascotia.ca

Please submit your resume and cover letter by clicking “Apply.” For more information, contact Erica Armstrong: earmstrong@royerthompson.com or Greg Dickie: gdickie@royerthompson.com for a confidential conversation.

Invest Nova Scotia is committed to embracing diversity and fostering a workplace that is reflective of the diverse and global community in which we operate. We welcome applications from Aboriginal people, African Nova Scotians, and other racially visible persons, persons with disabilities and persons who identify in the 2SLGBTQI+ community. If you are a member of one of the groups that reflect the diversity of Canadian society, you are encouraged to self-identify in either your cover letter or resume. If you require accommodation at any point during this process, please contact Edgarson Moxey at emoxey@royerthompson.com.