Website Harvard Kennedy School
Reporting to the Executive Director, the Assistant Director of Communications and Engagement is responsible for directing the communications and philanthropic engagement activities for the Woman and Public Policy Program at Harvard Kennedy School (HKS). In this role, you will craft compelling content that connects the Center’s work with donors, students, faculty, fellows, and policymakers. This multi-faceted role combines strategic planning, managerial responsibilities, and hands-on initiatives. This is a great fit if you approach problems with curiosity, are adept at conceptualizing, drafting, and editing content to sharpen ideas, and thrive in a fast-paced, academic environment.
The Women and Public Policy Program (WAPPP) at Harvard Kennedy School works to advance women and gender equity by creating knowledge, training leaders, and informing public policy and organizational practices. WAPPP is looking for strategic thinker who can collaborate across the Center’s small team to bring the stories of WAPPP’s research and impact to life in a variety of formats including print, digital, video, and engagement events, to amplify the work of faculty, students, and fellows, who are committed to advancing women and gender equity globally.
Position Description
Communications strategy
Develop and implement overall communications strategy focused on increasing philanthropic support for the Center in close consultation with the Center’s leadership and in alignment with Harvard Kennedy School Communications.
In alignment with the Center’s strategic plan, build a messaging calendar and establish outreach priorities to engage audiences and measure outcomes.
Develop and implement a digital strategy that prioritizes resources and best promotes the Center’s goals.
Marketing
Translate the Center’s work into compelling stories that will connect with audiences, including donors, policymakers, students, and faculty.
Develop, write, and produce Center’s newsletters including weekly events, monthly news updates, quarterly research updates, and regular donor updates. Manage audience lists.
Design and produce event invitations, brochures, flyers, presentations, and posters
Oversee WAPPP brand; hire and coordinate with graphic designers, photographers, web designers, and other vendors as needed.
Digital
Oversee all aspects of the website (wappp.hks.harvard.edu and gap.harvard.edu). Review the work of web contributors and maintain responsibility for the integrity and consistency of the site.
Manage the Center’s active social media presence. Track web and social analytics and use them to inform digital strategy.
Direct the development of dynamic new content including videos, podcasts, articles, and photo galleries. Keep up to date with emerging online marketing channels and develop a WAPPP presence when appropriate.
Manage contracts with all related vendors, including domain registrars, web hosts, bulk email providers, editorial photo libraries, CRM platform, and website developers and contractors.
Outreach and engagement
Supports the Co-directors and Executive Director and in their role as liaison to the Women’s Leadership Board (WLB) and other major donors
Leads programming, content, and logistics for biannual Women’s Leadership Board meetings and other engagement programming, including information sessions and orientations
Create donor communication and event materials
Contribute to and edit funding proposals
Manage the Communications and Engagement Associate
Basic Qualifications
At least 5 years of professional experience in communications, politics, journalism, or related field.
Bachelors’ degree in journalism, gender studies, English, or related field may be substituted for three years of the required experience.
Additional Qualifications and Skills
Excellent communication skills with an eye to donor-focused communications and events
Should be highly organized, committed to a team environment, and maintain a professional demeanor.
Exceptional interpersonal skills and proven record of working collaboratively with a wide range of constituents.
Proactive and able to complete complex tasks with minimal direction. Ability to manage projects, establish priorities among multiple simultaneous, deadlines and multi-task.
Strong familiarity with Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite, experience with web design, and enthusiasm for learning new technologies. Experience with Salesforce or other marketing email system.
Additional Information
Application instructions: Tell us more about your passion for learning and experimenting with new methods to deliver solutions in you cover letter.
This position is a fully benefits-eligible term appointment ending one year from date of hire with strong possibility of renewal.
We regret that the Harvard Kennedy School does not provide Visa Sponsorship.
Harvard University requires pre-employment references and background checks.
Harvard University is committed to supporting a healthy, sustainable learning and working environment.
This is a hybrid position based on our campus in Cambridge, MA. As a campus-based institution, we place a high value on the in-person experience, cross-team collaboration, and strong community building in order to create a vibrant campus for our students, faculty, staff, and research fellows. The position is required to work in-person on campus a minimum of three days per week during the academic year. Specific days and schedule will be determined between you and your manager.