What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of IOP Initiatives (67982BR) position at Harvard Kennedy School?
Job Summary
The Director of IOP Initiatives is an exciting role for a strategic and dynamic leader responsible for developing, managing, and executing a range of innovative programs and projects that align with the Institute of Politics’ (IOP) mission. This role will involve identifying opportunities to expand the institute’s impact, overseeing special projects, and fostering partnerships with key stakeholders including students, fellows, political practitioners, and colleagues across the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) and the Harvard community, and institutions and stakeholders outside of Harvard.
Position Description
Strategic Leadership and Planning:
Learn more about our work culture and see yourself at Harvard Kennedy School.
We regret that the Harvard Kennedy School does not provide visa sponsorship.
Harvard University requires pre-employment reference 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. The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.
Salary Range : $87,700 - $150,900
Note: Starting salaries typically fall in the lower half of the salary range; however, they are ultimately determined by the scope of the position, the candidate's relevant experience, and internal equity.
Work Format Details
This is a hybrid position that is based in Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. All remote work must be performed within one of the Harvard Registered Payroll States, which currently includes Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington, and California (CA for exempt positions only). Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
About Us
The Institute of Politics (IOP) at Harvard Kennedy School was established in 1966 as a memorial to President Kennedy. The IOP’s mission is to unite and engage students, particularly undergraduates, with academics, politicians, activists, and policymakers on a non-partisan basis to inspire them to consider careers in politics and public service. The Institute strives to promote greater understanding and cooperation between the academic world and the world of politics and public affairs.
The Institute oversees the John F. Kennedy Jr. Forum, one of the world’s premier arenas for political speech, discussion and debate. The IOP Fellows program offers a unique opportunity for political practitioners to spend the semester at Harvard interacting with and learning from students.
The IOP also offers wide-ranging opportunities for students to practice, get inspired, and gain the skills for a future in public service. Sixteen programs available to students include the Harvard Public Opinion Project, a nationwide survey project of young adults’ political views; and the Women's Initiative in Leadership, created to address the interest and importance of female students at Harvard in developing leadership skills. Students are also offered wide-ranging internship and career opportunities, including 100 paid public-service summer internships around the world.
In addition, the Institute offers conferences for new members of Congress and newly elected mayors , and, after each Presidential election, brings together campaign managers and strategists to analyze the race.
The IOP provides avenues for practical experience and encourages students to examine critically and think creatively about politics and public issues.
Benefits
We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website ( https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards ) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:
General Administration
Department Office Location
USA - MA - Cambridge
Job Code
361058 Administrative Manager
Work Format
Hybrid (partially on-site, partially remote)
Sub-Unit
Salary Grade
058
Department
Institute of Politics
Union
00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary
Time Status
Full-time
Pre-Employment Screening
Education, Identity
Commitment to Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Harvard Kennedy School’s Mission and Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Anti-Racism
At Harvard Kennedy School, fostering a diverse and inclusive community where everyone feels they belong is a matter of basic fairness consistent with our core values as an institution. It is also essential to our mission of improving public policy and leadership—because recruiting the best people and creating an environment where they can thrive make us better at what we do, because we learn more from people with different perspectives, and because we work in diverse groups and serve diverse societies. Learn more about Harvard Kennedy School’s commitment to Diversity Equity, and Anti-Racism.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.
LinkedIn Recruiter Tag (for internal use only)
The Director of IOP Initiatives is an exciting role for a strategic and dynamic leader responsible for developing, managing, and executing a range of innovative programs and projects that align with the Institute of Politics’ (IOP) mission. This role will involve identifying opportunities to expand the institute’s impact, overseeing special projects, and fostering partnerships with key stakeholders including students, fellows, political practitioners, and colleagues across the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) and the Harvard community, and institutions and stakeholders outside of Harvard.
Position Description
Strategic Leadership and Planning:
- Work with IOP leadership to develop actionable plans for implementing the Director’s vision and oversee implementation of new initiatives.
- Proactively suggest ideas, gather input and feedback, develop workplans.
- Work with other members of the IOP team to look for opportunities to leverage existing programming and opportunities for synergy.
- Develop plans for and execute programming that reflect different points of view in dialogue, including sessions specifically designed for students with opposing views to engage in discussion.
- Work with leadership to think strategically about how to make sure programming across the IOP reflects diverse and opposing views.
- Work with students and other emerging leaders to build their capacity and skills to be effective political leaders and engage meaningfully across different perspectives, backgrounds and ideologies around issues. Mentor and encourage the next generation of leaders.
- Develop an annual convening based on training the next generation of prospective leaders to be successful.
- Assist in the development and execution of a political leadership seminar.
- Assess the effectiveness of programs and initiatives through regular evaluation and feedback.
- Build and maintain relationships with other institutions and stakeholders to execute the mission of developing the next generation of political leadership.
- Lead and collaborate with staff and students dedicated to special initiatives.
- Foster an inclusive and collaborative team environment that encourages innovation and excellence.
- Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, government, or other directly related social science field.
- Minimum of 7 years of program or project management experience. Prior work experience in public policy or politics is required.
- Master’s degree in political science, public policy, government, or other directly related social science field is preferred.
- 10 years of experience in program management, public policy, or politics, with a track record of successful strategic leadership.
- Strong understanding of the political landscape and public service sector.
- Exceptional communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Proven ability to build relationships and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
- Experience in fundraising and resource development is highly desirable.
- Passion for public service, political engagement, and the mission of the IOP.
- Experience working with students a plus.
Learn more about our work culture and see yourself at Harvard Kennedy School.
We regret that the Harvard Kennedy School does not provide visa sponsorship.
Harvard University requires pre-employment reference 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. The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up-to-date on CDC-recommended vaccines.
Salary Range : $87,700 - $150,900
Note: Starting salaries typically fall in the lower half of the salary range; however, they are ultimately determined by the scope of the position, the candidate's relevant experience, and internal equity.
Work Format Details
This is a hybrid position that is based in Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. All remote work must be performed within one of the Harvard Registered Payroll States, which currently includes Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington, and California (CA for exempt positions only). Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.
About Us
The Institute of Politics (IOP) at Harvard Kennedy School was established in 1966 as a memorial to President Kennedy. The IOP’s mission is to unite and engage students, particularly undergraduates, with academics, politicians, activists, and policymakers on a non-partisan basis to inspire them to consider careers in politics and public service. The Institute strives to promote greater understanding and cooperation between the academic world and the world of politics and public affairs.
The Institute oversees the John F. Kennedy Jr. Forum, one of the world’s premier arenas for political speech, discussion and debate. The IOP Fellows program offers a unique opportunity for political practitioners to spend the semester at Harvard interacting with and learning from students.
The IOP also offers wide-ranging opportunities for students to practice, get inspired, and gain the skills for a future in public service. Sixteen programs available to students include the Harvard Public Opinion Project, a nationwide survey project of young adults’ political views; and the Women's Initiative in Leadership, created to address the interest and importance of female students at Harvard in developing leadership skills. Students are also offered wide-ranging internship and career opportunities, including 100 paid public-service summer internships around the world.
In addition, the Institute offers conferences for new members of Congress and newly elected mayors , and, after each Presidential election, brings together campaign managers and strategists to analyze the race.
The IOP provides avenues for practical experience and encourages students to examine critically and think creatively about politics and public issues.
Benefits
We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website ( https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards ) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:
- Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
- Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
- Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
- Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
- Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
- Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
- Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
- Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
- Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
General Administration
Department Office Location
USA - MA - Cambridge
Job Code
361058 Administrative Manager
Work Format
Hybrid (partially on-site, partially remote)
Sub-Unit
Salary Grade
058
Department
Institute of Politics
Union
00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary
Time Status
Full-time
Pre-Employment Screening
Education, Identity
Commitment to Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
Harvard Kennedy School’s Mission and Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Anti-Racism
At Harvard Kennedy School, fostering a diverse and inclusive community where everyone feels they belong is a matter of basic fairness consistent with our core values as an institution. It is also essential to our mission of improving public policy and leadership—because recruiting the best people and creating an environment where they can thrive make us better at what we do, because we learn more from people with different perspectives, and because we work in diverse groups and serve diverse societies. Learn more about Harvard Kennedy School’s commitment to Diversity Equity, and Anti-Racism.
EEO Statement
We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.
LinkedIn Recruiter Tag (for internal use only)
Salary : $87,700 - $150,900
