Director of MPP Program

Director of MPP Program

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA

The director works with students individually and in groups to provide support and advising and to maximize students’ well-being and successful completion of degree requirements. The director oversees the MPP Program team’s management of MPP new student orientation, first- and second-year capstone exercises, feedback sessions, seminars and other MPP program events serves as a member of the MPP Admissions Committee, and on other MPP Program, Degree Programs and Student Affairs and School-wide committees as appropriate; and serves as main HKS liaison for joint degree programs and coordinates the MPP joint degree policies, procedures and related student events.

The director consults with MPP program Faculty Chair on academic policy and advising; serves on the MPP core task force as the key staff partner and works closely with school leadership and core faculty to contribute to the ongoing evolution of the MPP core curriculum and its implementation. Provides pre-enrollment information and advice to significant numbers of potential applicants. Assists Alumni Affairs and Resource Development in providing stewardship to fellowship donors and support for alumni relations.

The MPP director also collaborates with other program directors and DPSA units to coordinate student services across degree programs as needed, manages MPP Program staff and budget, and performs related duties as required.

We value and are committed to building a diverse community and strongly encourage candidates who can demonstrate through their professional career or service that they can contribute to the diversity and excellence of our community.

Typical Core Duties

Responsible for effective staff management, including hiring and orientation, training and development, workflow and performance management, and the promotion of an inclusive and innovative work environment

Oversee the design and implementation of programs to enhance the quality of the student experience; manage processes, outreach, content and finances

Provide individual and group advising in support of students’ well-being, success and completion of degree requirements

Provide student organizations with guidance and advising including training, strategic planning, financial oversight, and policy and procedures

Oversee the implementation of events, seminars, and conferences including developing content and structure, publicity, coordination with other Harvard offices and groups and logistical details

Develop reports, analyze data and trends to refine procedures, policies and practice

May plan and manage departmental budget

May review accommodation request and determine eligibility

May serve as primary contact for students in regards to Title IX; disseminate information about policies, manage and keep track of cases and provide guidance and support to students

Collaborate with leadership to continuously improve student services policies

Develop and implement operational policies, procedures and training for staff

Ensure compliance with University policies and procedures and applicable legal rules and regulations

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience required

Minimum of 8 years’ relevant work experience

Supervisory experience

Additional Qualifications and Skills

Master’s degree strongly preferred. Strong verbal and written communication skills. Candidate must be self-motivated, creative, collaborative and discrete. Knowledge of the Kennedy School and Harvard University is a plus, but not required. International experiences a plus.

Certificates and Licenses

Physical Requirements

Sitting using near vision use for reading and computer use for extended periods of time

Lifting (approximately 20 to 30 pounds), bending, and other physical exertion

Working Conditions

Work is performed in an office setting

May be required to work nights and weekends

Additional Information

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.

Please note: During the current period of Covid-19 related restrictions, this position may start as a remote position, with transition to onsite in Cambridge, Massachusetts when the office reopens.

We continue to monitor the evolving COVID-19 and lifting of restrictions. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility with our interview process. We will be conducting interviews virtually for selected candidates until further notice.

Harvard Kennedy School’s Mission and Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

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, inclusion, and belonging.

Harvard offers a generous benefits package including:

Time Off: 3- 4 weeks paid vacation, paid holiday break, 12 paid sick days, 11.5 paid holidays, and 3 paid personal days per year.

Medical/Dental/Vision: We offer a variety of excellent medical plans, dental & vision plans, all coverage begins as of your start date.

Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with full vesting after 3 years of service.

Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive tuition assistance program, $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and discounted options through participating Harvard grad schools.

Transportation: Harvard offers a 50% discounted MBTA pass as well as additional options to assist employees in their daily commute.

Wellness Options: Harvard offers programs and classes at little or no cost, including stress management, massages, nutrition, meditation and complimentary health services.

Harvard access to athletic facilities, libraries, campus events and many discounts throughout metro Boston.

Salary Range: $90,200 - $157,200

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.

Job Function

Faculty & Student Services