Vice-Admiral Mark Norman installed as Vice Chief of Defence Staff

Vice-Admiral Mark Norman recently assumed his new role as Vice Chief of the Defence Staff (VCDS) of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).

Norman assumes the role from Lieutenant-General Guy Thibault’s who retired from the CAF after 38 years of service. Thibault has been VCDS since Sept. 2013.

“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,” stated Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan.

Norman began his military career in 1980 as a naval reservist and later joined the regular force in 1985 as a sub-lieutenant. In June 2013, he was promoted to become Chief of the Naval Staff and Commander of the Royal Canadian Navy.

“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,” said VAdm. Norman.

A change of command ceremony took place on Aug. 5 at the Cartier Square Drill Hall and was presided by Chief of the Defence Staff, Gen. Jonathan Vance.

“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,” stated Gen. Vance.

As the second in command of the CAF, Norman will be responsible for many different aspects of the Department of Defence and the CAF including: Chief of Programme, Chief of Force Development; Canadian Forces Provost Marshall; Chief of Reserves and Cadets; Defence Security and Defence Renewal.