Engagement Programs & Communications Lead

Harvard University; Cambridge (MA); Hybrid; USD 75,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Harvard University’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences is hiring a Programs, Communications and Engagement Manager (PCEM) to oversee a portfolio of departmental programs, communications, events, and strategic initiatives within the department. You will partner with faculty, students, alumni, donors, visitors, and central University offices to ensure impactful engagement and effective operations.

Reporting to the Director of Administration, the PCEM will lead communications, manage internal grants,

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or 5+ years in academic administration or related field.
• Experience managing complex programs, events, or academic initiatives.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and independently.
• Experience with faculty, students, and senior administrators in higher education.
• Strong writing, editing, and communication skills.
• Experience with website content management systems.

Responsibilities

• Manage internal grants and funding programs from launch through award administration and reporting.
• Coordinate submissions, faculty review committees, award notifications, and applicant communications.
• Prepare committee materials and maintain records of applications, awards, and funding activity.
• Partner with department leadership on award setup, fund distribution, and donor restrictions compliance.
• Analyze funding trends and improve grant administration processes, workflows, and communications, optimizing with AI workflows.
• Lead donor stewardship and reporting with departmental leadership.
• Gather project outcomes for donor reports, briefings, and communications.
• Develop and oversee departmental communications and external engagement strategies.
• Plan and execute events, conferences, and academic programming; manage budgets.
• Administer the Department’s predoctoral research program and onboarding for fellows.

Skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

Project management

Web content management

Organizational skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Education

Bachelor’s degree or 5+ years experience

Job description

Harvard University’s Faculty of Arts and Sciences is hiring a Programs, Communications and Engagement Manager (PCEM) to oversee a portfolio of departmental programs, communications, events, and strategic initiatives within the department. You will partner with faculty, students, alumni, donors, visitors, and central University offices to ensure impactful engagement and effective operations.

Reporting to the Director of Administration, the PCEM will lead communications, manage internal grants,