The chief of the Defence Staff (CDS; French: chef d'état-major de la Défense; CEMD) is the professional head of the Canadian Armed Forces.

[2] Only two officers served in the role in its 13-year history:General Charles Foulkes (1951–1960) and Air Chief Marshal Frank Robert Miller (1960–1964).

[9] The third task is to implement the national defence strategy as outlined by the King-in-Council, requiring both the acquisition of new equipment and the strengthening of diplomatic relations via the United Nations, North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and North American Aerospace Defence Command.

[9] The CDS is also the chair of the Canadian Forces Decorations Advisory Committee, which reviews and recommends to the governor general members of the forces eligible to receive decorations for valour, bravery, and meritorious service, as well as Commander-in-Chief Unit Commendations.

[10] This committee mirrors that for the Order of Military Merit, of which the CDS is ex-officio a member and the Principal Commander.

[11] Separately, the CDS presents the Chief of the Defence Staff Commendation (French: Mention élogieuse du Chef d'état-major de la Défense) to recognize activity or service beyond regular expectations.