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Government of Canada

About the Program

The Next Generation Deputy Chief Financial Officer (DCFO) program is a 1-year program designed to transition exceptional senior financial executives into a DCFO role. The program is delivered by the Chartered Professional Accountants of Canada (CPA Canada) and the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy (CIPFA).

Throughout the program, participants can expect to take part in the following:

  • In-class workshops
  • Online learning
  • Action learning sets
  • 360 degree and self-assessments
  • Experiential learning 

Program Eligibility

To qualify for the Next Generation DCFO program, you will need to meet the following requirements:

  • Be a financial executive
  • Be identified in the executive talent management process
  • Receive a recommendation from your Chief Financial Officer (CFO) to participate in the program 

Program Experience

Participants in the program will experience:

The workshops are a blend of presentations, on-line learning, guest speakers, leadership panel discussions and case studies to maximize engagement. Each workshop addresses the following themes:

  • Reflective Leadership
  • Governance & Risk
  • Project Management & Business Case Development
  • Finance & Business Partnering
  • Change Management
  • Parliamentary Affairs Committee

The online learning modules provide insight on technical concepts and stakeholder expectations. The modules address topics such as:

  • Strategic Management of Public Funds
  • Planning
  • Budgeting
  • Costing
  • Management and Measurement

Action learning is an effective way to help develop strong leadership skills. Facilitators provide a structured and confidential environment to share ideas and problem solve. By the second or third action learning set, participants will become more reflective and able to identify development opportunities.

Participants are able to learn from experience by job shadowing DCFOs or CFOs and presenting topics to senior management. Participants will also complete a formal 360 assessment to learn more about their leadership style

Ready to Apply?

The Financial Management Community Development (FMCD) team will contact individuals selected as part of the talent management process to apply. If you have questions about this program, contact FMCD General Enquiries.

"The Next Generation Deputy Chief Financial Officer Program provided me with many opportunities to reflect upon the role of leadership in financial management. Just as importantly, the Program provided an excellent opportunity to discuss emerging issues with other financial executives from across the federal public service."
William, Director, Financial Management Community Development Division Office of the Comptroller General
Picture of William.