Job Description

Job Summary

The Writer and Research Assistant provides high-level research and writing support to the Dean. This role requires proactive anticipation of information needs, independent work across multiple units, and effective synthesis and development of information. This person will research and prepare briefings, talking points and presentations for various contexts, including individual meetings, lectures, and events. They will collaborate with multiple units and HKS colleagues to draft briefings and remarks and gather necessary background information. In addition, they will provide research assistance to advance strategic priorities for the school and contribute to academic projects of the Dean. In consultation with the Chief of Staff, the incumbent will support the daily and long-term activities of the Dean's Office and advances the Dean's agenda.

Position Description

• Gather, synthesize, and further develop information from various units to create comprehensive briefings for the Dean's daily activities, including meetings and events.
• Conduct background research and prepare reports and summaries for the Dean.
• Accompany the Dean to meetings as necessary, to synthesize information.
• Draft or revise talking points and other written documents tailored to different contexts, ensuring accuracy and relevance, in consultation with colleagues in the Dean's office and the Office of Communications and Public Affairs (OCPA) where appropriate.
• Draft and revise formal written remarks, drawing on input from the Dean and in consultation with colleagues in the Dean's office, OCPA, and research centers and departments where appropriate.
• Develop background materials as necessary, including financial data, historical context, and related background material.
• Work with a sense of urgency to meet deadlines and deliver high-quality briefings and materials in a timely manner.
• Handle confidential data with utmost discretion and maintain high levels of confidentiality.
• Undertake research and prepare briefings and reports related to Dean's strategic priorities and research projects.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required
• Minimum of three years of related experience in research, writing, and administration. Relevant internships will count towards experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Demonstrated collaborative style with wide range of stakeholders.
• Strong time-management and organizational skills and ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously, while maintaining attention to detail required.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, take initiative, and work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Attention to detail and ability to synthesize complex information.
• Discretion and ability to handle confidential information and data.
• Proactive mindset and ability to anticipate information needs.
• Proficiency in gathering and analyzing data from multiple sources.
• Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Additional Information

The interview process will include research and writing exercises.

This position is a fully benefits-eligible term appointment ending one year from date of hire, with possibility of renewal.

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 four 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 : $68,100 - $111,500
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.

Benefits

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Job Tags

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