Harvard University
Senior Director of Communications and Engagement
Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States, 02141
Senior Director for Global Communications, Bloomberg Center for Cities
The Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University is seeking a Senior Director to lead its global communications, engagement, and dissemination efforts. This role will raise the Center's profile, expand its reach among scholars and practitioners, and promote the use of research-based insights and tools for urban leadership and problem-solving. About the Role: This position goes beyond traditional communications. It includes developing platforms and channels, fostering communities and networks, and managing strategic partnerships. The Senior Director will work across teams at the Center to highlight its research, programs, and impactconnecting faculty, students, and city leaders. They will draw on faculty research and tell compelling stories about the impact of mayors and students who work with the Center. This leader will shape a clear narrative that captures the Center's mission and activities, increases its visibility and brand recognition, and aligns with key partners, including Bloomberg Philanthropies. What Were Looking For: Were looking for a strategic thinker with strong execution skills. The successful candidate will know how to craft compelling stories for different audiencesfrom city leaders and policymakers to students and scholars. They are comfortable leading a high-performing team, producing high-quality content, and coordinating across complex environments. They see communication and engagement as avenues for connection, influence, and change and have the ambition and ability to excel in all aspects of the job. Job-Specific Responsibilities: Develop and lead a global communications strategy that advances the Centers mission. Serve as a senior advisor to the Director, other senior leaders, and affiliated faculty on media inquiries, announcements, and high-priority communications. Shape and steward the Centers narrative to ensure consistency, clarity, and resonance across platforms, audiences, and geographies. Identify and support individuals and entities who can amplify impact and visibility of the Centers work. Promote the adoption of research-based curricular materials by educators, institutions, and learners focused on cities worldwide. Lead strategies to elevate public discourse on urban problem-solving and city leadership. Guide the creation of compelling content that draws on the Centers research, reports, teaching materials, events, and impact stories to drive engagement across channels, networks, and platforms. Create and execute a robust media relations and social engagement strategy positioning the Center as a global hub for research on cities and a trusted resource for current and future city leaders. Plan and execute high-profile announcements, campaigns, and initiatives in close coordination with Harvard collaborators, Bloomberg Philanthropies, and other key stakeholders. Develop and lead a high-performing team and manage relationships with vendors, creative partners, Harvard-affiliated faculty and labs, and internal Center teams. Design and manage organizational infrastructure and working processes to execute the global plan and support high standards quality. Manage the communications budget and propose allocation of resources and assets to maximize impact. Track and analyze performance across core areas to demonstrate impact, drive continuous improvement, and inform future strategy. Establish systems, calendars, and protocols to ensure coordination and timely delivery across all communications activities. Basic Qualifications: Bachelors Degree and a minimum of 8 years of increasing responsibility in communications and/or public engagement roles. Additional Qualifications and Skills: The ideal candidate combines strategic thinking with strong tactical execution and a demonstrated ability to deliver high-quality communication and engagement efforts across a range of formats and audiences. They will also possess the ability to perform well across arenas and organizations with different standards, interests, cultures, and practices. They are comfortable working independently and collaboratively, balancing long-term planning with day-to-day responsiveness. With a strong editorial instinct, political and organizational sensitivity, and a relentless commitment to excellence, they can quickly produce clear, compelling contentfrom practical communications to complex, research-informed narratives. They understand how to build and sustain impactful platforms and channels and have the skills to design and manage all business processes associated with high performing communications systems. They thrive in dynamic environments, bring sound judgment to sensitive issues, and remain calm under pressure. Proven success designing and executing sophisticated media strategiesacross national, regional, and local contextsideally within government, academic or policy-oriented organizations, or large public affairs or communications agencies. Exceptional writer, editor, producer, and storyteller with a sharp instinct for institutional voice, audience engagement, production value, and public positioning. Self-starter who thrives in a collaborative team environment and takes pride in delivering high-quality, timely communications. Experience designing and managing content strategies that support platform-building, field dissemination, and the uptake of research-based materials by external institutions. Ability to support and engage with high-profile public officials; strong grasp of city, state, and national policy landscapes, domestically and internationally. Fluent in traditional and digital media tools, with a track record of securing media coverage and managing journalist relationships nationally and internationally. Experience developing and scaling communications infrastructure, including owned media channels. Proficiency in the use of generative AI and knowledgeable about the strategic use of genAI tools in organizational settings. Understanding of the political, social, and civic contexts that shape urban governance in the U.S. Highly organized, detail-oriented, and composed under pressure; able to manage sensitive issues with discretion and judgment. Collaborative and inclusive team leader who builds strong relationships, mentors others, and works well across diverse teams. This position is a fully benefits eligible term appointment through June 30, 2027, with the possibility of renewal. Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education Other Information: This role is based in Cambridge, MA and is a full-time position. Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week Work Format Details: This is a position that is based at a Harvard campus location with some remote work options available. 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. Salary Grade and Ranges: This position is salary grade level 060. Please visit Harvards 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 Harvards academic purposes.
The Bloomberg Center for Cities at Harvard University is seeking a Senior Director to lead its global communications, engagement, and dissemination efforts. This role will raise the Center's profile, expand its reach among scholars and practitioners, and promote the use of research-based insights and tools for urban leadership and problem-solving. About the Role: This position goes beyond traditional communications. It includes developing platforms and channels, fostering communities and networks, and managing strategic partnerships. The Senior Director will work across teams at the Center to highlight its research, programs, and impactconnecting faculty, students, and city leaders. They will draw on faculty research and tell compelling stories about the impact of mayors and students who work with the Center. This leader will shape a clear narrative that captures the Center's mission and activities, increases its visibility and brand recognition, and aligns with key partners, including Bloomberg Philanthropies. What Were Looking For: Were looking for a strategic thinker with strong execution skills. The successful candidate will know how to craft compelling stories for different audiencesfrom city leaders and policymakers to students and scholars. They are comfortable leading a high-performing team, producing high-quality content, and coordinating across complex environments. They see communication and engagement as avenues for connection, influence, and change and have the ambition and ability to excel in all aspects of the job. Job-Specific Responsibilities: Develop and lead a global communications strategy that advances the Centers mission. Serve as a senior advisor to the Director, other senior leaders, and affiliated faculty on media inquiries, announcements, and high-priority communications. Shape and steward the Centers narrative to ensure consistency, clarity, and resonance across platforms, audiences, and geographies. Identify and support individuals and entities who can amplify impact and visibility of the Centers work. Promote the adoption of research-based curricular materials by educators, institutions, and learners focused on cities worldwide. Lead strategies to elevate public discourse on urban problem-solving and city leadership. Guide the creation of compelling content that draws on the Centers research, reports, teaching materials, events, and impact stories to drive engagement across channels, networks, and platforms. Create and execute a robust media relations and social engagement strategy positioning the Center as a global hub for research on cities and a trusted resource for current and future city leaders. Plan and execute high-profile announcements, campaigns, and initiatives in close coordination with Harvard collaborators, Bloomberg Philanthropies, and other key stakeholders. Develop and lead a high-performing team and manage relationships with vendors, creative partners, Harvard-affiliated faculty and labs, and internal Center teams. Design and manage organizational infrastructure and working processes to execute the global plan and support high standards quality. Manage the communications budget and propose allocation of resources and assets to maximize impact. Track and analyze performance across core areas to demonstrate impact, drive continuous improvement, and inform future strategy. Establish systems, calendars, and protocols to ensure coordination and timely delivery across all communications activities. Basic Qualifications: Bachelors Degree and a minimum of 8 years of increasing responsibility in communications and/or public engagement roles. Additional Qualifications and Skills: The ideal candidate combines strategic thinking with strong tactical execution and a demonstrated ability to deliver high-quality communication and engagement efforts across a range of formats and audiences. They will also possess the ability to perform well across arenas and organizations with different standards, interests, cultures, and practices. They are comfortable working independently and collaboratively, balancing long-term planning with day-to-day responsiveness. With a strong editorial instinct, political and organizational sensitivity, and a relentless commitment to excellence, they can quickly produce clear, compelling contentfrom practical communications to complex, research-informed narratives. They understand how to build and sustain impactful platforms and channels and have the skills to design and manage all business processes associated with high performing communications systems. They thrive in dynamic environments, bring sound judgment to sensitive issues, and remain calm under pressure. Proven success designing and executing sophisticated media strategiesacross national, regional, and local contextsideally within government, academic or policy-oriented organizations, or large public affairs or communications agencies. Exceptional writer, editor, producer, and storyteller with a sharp instinct for institutional voice, audience engagement, production value, and public positioning. Self-starter who thrives in a collaborative team environment and takes pride in delivering high-quality, timely communications. Experience designing and managing content strategies that support platform-building, field dissemination, and the uptake of research-based materials by external institutions. Ability to support and engage with high-profile public officials; strong grasp of city, state, and national policy landscapes, domestically and internationally. Fluent in traditional and digital media tools, with a track record of securing media coverage and managing journalist relationships nationally and internationally. Experience developing and scaling communications infrastructure, including owned media channels. Proficiency in the use of generative AI and knowledgeable about the strategic use of genAI tools in organizational settings. Understanding of the political, social, and civic contexts that shape urban governance in the U.S. Highly organized, detail-oriented, and composed under pressure; able to manage sensitive issues with discretion and judgment. Collaborative and inclusive team leader who builds strong relationships, mentors others, and works well across diverse teams. This position is a fully benefits eligible term appointment through June 30, 2027, with the possibility of renewal. Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education Other Information: This role is based in Cambridge, MA and is a full-time position. Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week Work Format Details: This is a position that is based at a Harvard campus location with some remote work options available. 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. Salary Grade and Ranges: This position is salary grade level 060. Please visit Harvards 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 Harvards academic purposes.