Program Coordinator, Democracy and the Informed Public Program

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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 Program Coordinator is a key member of the Democracy and the Informed Public Program team at the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS). Their portfolio includes a range of administrative, financial, and programmatic duties. Candidates must demonstrate consistent attention to detail, a willingness to approach problems with creativity and collegiality, and a basic understanding of research. The Ash Center is a global, values-driven community that believes diverse perspectives are essential to understanding and addressing real-world problems. By fostering an environment of rigor, curiosity, and integrity, we value and respect different opinions, experiences, and diverse research and policy approaches. We actively seek candidates who share our values and commitment to these principles. 

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

The position will report to the Program Director of Democracy and the Informed Public and work closely with faculty co-directors, other contributors, and Ash Center colleagues. Specific responsibilities include: 

Research and Program Support 

• Compile and update shared program database (of scholars, collaborators, case studies, others). 
• Conduct internet/desk research on a variety of topics, as assigned. 
• Format and edit PowerPoint slides, program summaries, and other overview documents. 
• Schedule meetings with scholars, practitioners, and potential collaborators; book space and arrange catering (as needed). 
• Review and prepare reimbursements, invoices, corporate card reconciliations, and other financial transactions, ensuring compliance with University financial policies. 
• Assist with recruiting, screening, and preparing appointment paperwork for student RAs and visiting fellows. 
• Attend and contribute to team meetings. 
• Additional duties as needed. 

Convening and Event Logistics  

• Book travel, hotel accommodations, dinner reservations, and other arrangements for invited speakers and program participants. 
• Draft and send invitations, track RSVPs, draft and send reminders, and create nametags, nameplates, attendee lists, agendas, and other event materials as needed. 
• Staff events; including setting up room layout, readying slides, and testing microphones.   

Communications  

• Keep website up to date, including drafting text. 
• Build and maintain list of scholars, practitioners, and students interested in the Informed Public Program. 
• Work with the Ash Communications team to contribute to email campaigns, newsletters, and social media. 
• Collaborate with the Informed Public team to conceptualize and execute creative outreach strategies. 

 

Basic Qualifications:

2 years of experience in public policy, political science, or related field.  Relevant internships will count toward experience.

Please include a cover letter in your application materials.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Demonstrated excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Interest in public policy issues pertaining to transparency, information, media, democratic governance, or policy more broadly.
• Experience working on a research project or interest in academic research.
• Experience managing multiple projects, setting priorities, and working as a part of a team.
• Experience with event coordination.
• Familiarity with communication, collaboration and social media tools including Canva, Photoshop, PowerPoint, Excel, Salesforce, Concur, WordPress.
• Experience incorporating an equity lens into one’s work and helping build inclusive work environments. 
• Relevant Bachelor's Degree is a plus.

• Appointment End Date: This position is a fully benefits eligible term appointment through 10/31/26, with the 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

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. 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 054. 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.