Executive Coordinator

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Kennedy School?

The John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is one of 12 graduate and professional schools at the university. Harvard Kennedy School’s mission is to improve public policy and leadership so people can live in societies that are more safe, free, just, and sustainably prosperous. By combining cutting-edge research, the teaching of outstanding students, and direct interaction with practitioners, we have an impact on solving public problems that no other institution can match. When you work at Harvard Kennedy School, you make a difference.

The mission of the Taubman Center for State and Local Government at the Harvard Kennedy School is to support current and future public sector leaders in improving the governance of states, counties, and cities. The Taubman Center and its affiliates, including the Government Performance Lab (GPL), Harvard Impact Labs, and the Rappaport Institute for Greater Boston, are generating solutions to pressing state and local government challenges through teaching, academic research, hands-on projects with governments, and convenings that bring together policy makers and thought leaders to engage with faculty, staff, fellows, and students. 

Job Summary:

The Executive Coordinator will provide high-level administrative support to Professor Liebman who directs the Taubman Center for State and Local Government, the Rappaport Institute for Greater Boston, Harvard Impact Labs, and the Government Performance Lab (GPL).   

The ideal candidate for this role will find inspiration in our missions of improving government performance, solving social problems, and training up-and-coming leaders.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Provide administrative support to the director, handling scheduling, answering the phone, drafting and proof-reading documents, making photocopies, scanning and electronically filing documents, processing reimbursements, coordination of hiring student research assistants, and ordering books and supplies, among other responsibilities. 
• Maximize the productivity of the director by managing and making strategic decisions about the allocation of his time, making sure information flows in both directions between the director and GPL staff, Taubman Center staff, Rappaport Institute staff, Harvard Impact Labs staff, and handling relationships with many other parts of the Kennedy School and outside organizations. 
• Serve as the director’s faculty assistant, interacting with students, helping to prepare course materials and maintain course websites, handling teaching-related technology needs, and arranging travel logistics for guest speakers. 
• Support the director in his research. Depending on the candidate’s experience and interests, the research-related portion of the role could emphasize research and writing, data analysis, project management, or grant management.
• Provide other operational and administrative support as needed, such as handling scheduling for multi-person meetings or assisting with Taubman Center events and GPL convenings. 

Working Conditions:

This is an in-person position, and the Executive Coordinator needs to be available to work on campus five days a week. Some weeks, 1-2 days of remote work may be possible. Specific days and schedule will be determined with their supervisor. 

Physical Requirements: 

Occasional lifting up to 20 lbs may be required (for example with office supplies such as copier paper). 

Basic Qualifications:

• 2+ years of related professional experience providing high-level administrative support to senior leaders.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Excellent organizational skills with particular ability to multi-task, work independently, and prioritize work in an environment with multiple and conflicting demands.
• Commitment to mission of improving government performance and solving social problems.
• Strong writing, proof-reading, and verbal communication skills.
• Eagerness to learn both processes and content, discretion on confidential matters, sound judgment and attention to detail.
• Team player with proven ability to build strong relationships and develop trust with colleagues.
• High level of maturity and empathy with outstanding interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Suite, Zoom, and e-mail computer applications required.

• Appointment End Date: One year from date of hire with possibility of renewal
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity
• Other Information: This position requires working 5 days/week on-site on our campus in Cambridge, MA, and is not eligible for remote work. 1-2 days of remote work may be possible some weeks. 

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 055. Please visit  Harvard's Salary Ranges  to view the corresponding salary range and related information. 

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to: 

• Generous paid time off including parental leave 
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
• Retirement plans with university contributions 
• Wellbeing and mental health resources 
• Support for families and caregivers 
• Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
• Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks 

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.