Lieutenant-General (LGen) Stephen Kelsey assumed the responsibilities of Vice Chief of the Defence Staff (VCDS) during a change of command ceremony which took place at National Defence Headquarters Carling.

General Jennie Carignan, the Chief of the Defence Staff, presided over the ceremony in the presence of military and civilian members of the Defence Team.

As second in command of the Canadian Armed Forces, the VCDS is responsible for ensuring that Department of National Defence policy strategic objectives are achieved. Accountable to both the CDS and the Deputy Minister of National Defence, the VCDS also governs National Defence headquarters and its related activities.

LGen Frances Allen has contributed a remarkable 41-year career to serving in the Canadian Armed Forces, and her diverse career has included postings as Director General Cyber Force Development and the Canadian Military Representative at NATO in Brussels. As the first woman appointed to the position of VCDS, LGen Allen notably led the implementation of files such as Reconstitution and NORAD Modernization.

LGen Stephen Kelsey is a distinguished leader with over three decades serving in the Canadian Armed Forces. He has commanded with excellence in various roles, including operational deployments in Croatia, Montenegro, and Afghanistan. His expertise is pivotal, supported by advanced education and international recognition. LGen Kelsey will continue to exemplify leadership and strategic proficiency in global military operations in his role as VCDS.

“First, I would like to thank Lieutenant-General Allen for her 41-year service to Canada, her exceptional dedication and invaluable contributions to the Department of National Defence and Canadian Armed Forces. Secondly, I would like to congratulate Lieutenant-General Kelsey on his appointment as the Vice Chief of the Defence Staff. He will play a vital role in helping the Department of National Defence navigate today’s increasingly dynamic and challenging world.”

The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence

“As our new Vice Chief of the Defence Saff, Lieutenant-General Kelsey brings a remarkable track record of expertise and unwavering leadership to the forefront, making him the perfect choice for the role of second-in-command of the Canadian Armed Forces. Thank you to Lieutenant-General Allen for her incredible contribution to the Canadian Armed Forces. Her dedication and commitment embody the very essence of service to Canada. We are deeply grateful for her continued contributions and steadfast leadership.”

General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff

“On behalf of the Department of National Defence, I would like to congratulate and welcome Lieutenant-General Kelsey in his new role as Vice Chief of the Defence Staff. His expertise and experienced leadership will be of great value to the Defence Team. I would also like to thank Lieutenant-General Allen for a remarkable four decades of service and congratulate her on her well-deserved retirement.”

Stefanie Beck, Deputy Minister

“Over the last 3 years, as the VCDS, I have seen our institution do what it does best – assess the situation, engage with others to consider options to create the needed change, and start on a path forward. I want to thank everyone for their commitment and support and am honoured to have served with you.”

Lieutenant-General Frances Allen, outgoing Vice Chief of the Defence Staff

“I am sincerely humbled by the opportunity to serve the Canadian Armed Forces, Department of National Defence and Canada as Vice Chief of the Defence Staff. As I accept the responsibilities of this appointment, I look forward to the collaborative opportunities it presents and will continue to serve with integrity, accountability and courage as I carry on the legacy left by LGen Allen during her 3-year tenure.”

Lieutenant-General Stephen Kelsey, incoming Vice Chief of the Defence Staff

ADDITIONAL INFO

  • Lieutenant-General S. R. Kelsey, CMM, CD began service in 1985 as a Reserve infantry soldier, commissioning into the Regular Force and Royal Canadian Armoured Corps in 1988.
  • In 2016 he deployed to Baghdad with 1st US Infantry Division then 1st US Armoured Division as the Chief of Staff Combined Joint Force Land Component Command HQ. In 2017 he toiled as Army Chief of Staff Strategy before being promoted and appointed as the Canadian Armed Forces Chief of Force Development in 2020. From 2022 to 2024 he was NATO’s Deputy Commander Allied Joint Force Command Naples.
  • Promoted to the rank of Colonel in 2013, he became J7 (Director- Readiness and Force Posture) at Canadian Joint Operations Command before assuming command of the Kingston Garrison in 2015. He was concurrently Director Royal Canadian Armoured Corps from 2013 to 2016.