Assistant Director of Programs

Harvard University • Boston, MA

10h • Hybrid

About The Position

The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health is a world-renowned institution dedicated to advancing public health through cutting-edge research, education, and global collaboration. Our school is a special place to work because of its vibrant, mission-driven community, interdisciplinary approach, and commitment to addressing some of the most pressing health challenges worldwide. We foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment where innovation, continuous learning, and work-life balance are valued.

The Center for Climate, Health and the Global Environment, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health (Harvard Chan C-CHANGE) is committed to tackling issues that are essential for building healthy, just, and sustainable communities. Through rigorous research, we evaluate and advance solutions that will enable the healthiest, most equitable path forward, especially for communities that are most vulnerable to climate change. Our work addresses climate impacts at every level: individuals; health care systems; communities and cities; and national and global policy.

Reporting to Tracy Sachs, Administrative Director, the Assistant Director of Programs is responsible for developing, managing, and executing strategic programs, partnerships, educational initiatives, and engagement activities that advance the Center’s mission, visibility, and impact. This role oversees a diverse portfolio that includes external partnerships, advisory board engagement, educational programming, and events. Working closely with Center leadership and external stakeholders, the Assistant Director of Programs helps strengthen the Center’s profile and influence while creating opportunities for meaningful collaboration in advancing climate health solutions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience is required.
• 5+ years of relevant experience is required.
• Experience in program management, partnership development, or external relations within a nonprofit, academic, or public health/environmental organization
• Experience managing or supporting an advisory board or similar governance body
• Experience with standard computer software such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Independent judgment, patience, and excellent communication skills
• Organization and attention to detail
• Flexibility and work effectively with a team
• Maintain a calm and cooperative attitude during periods of increased activity

Nice To Haves

• Experience with proposal development and fundraising for programmatic or partnership initiatives are preferred

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for the development, implementation, and growth of strategic programs and partnerships that advance the Center’s educational, research, and outreach goals.
• Develop and manage strategic partnerships with academic institutions, nonprofits, government agencies, industry leaders, and community organizations
• Identify, cultivate, and steward collaborative opportunities that support the Center’s mission and strategic objectives
• Build and strengthen relationships across Harvard University and external partners to foster innovative collaborations
• Collaborate with faculty and researchers to identify opportunities for new programs and initiatives
• Develop proposals and support fundraising efforts related to programmatic and partnership activities
• Conduct stakeholder interviews and represent the Center in meetings, forums, and collaborative initiatives
• Support the creation of communications materials that highlight program impact and partnership success
• Monitor, evaluate, and report on program outcomes and partnership effectiveness
• Provide strategic leadership and operational management for the Center’s External Advisory Board and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Manage the Center’s Advisory Board engagement strategy including identifying and vetting prospects
• Coordinate board recruitment, onboarding, stewardship, and communications
• Organize and facilitate board meetings, including agenda development, materials preparation, and follow-up
• Partner with Center leadership to identify opportunities for board engagement and strategic input
• Foster strong relationships with board members and key external stakeholders
• Develop strategies that leverage advisory board expertise, networks, and influence to advance Center priorities
• Track board recommendations, engagement activities, and outcomes
• Lead the development and execution of educational programming, events, and public engagement initiatives that expand the Center’s reach and impact.
• Develop annual programming and engagement plans aligned with Center priorities
• Identify, evaluate, and manage opportunities for conferences, workshops, summits, lectures, and other educational events
• Design program content and participant experiences that support learning and engagement objectives
• Recruit and coordinate speakers, faculty, researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and community leaders
• Oversee event logistics, registration systems, website content, promotional materials, and participant communications
• Collaborate with University departments, centers, student organizations, and external partners on shared programming opportunities
• Evaluate program effectiveness and use data to inform future planning and continuous improvement
• Perform other duties as assigned

Benefits

• 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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level