Chief Communications Officer

Grade: 062 Department: Communications and Public Affairs FLSA Status: Exempt Company Description By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive. 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.

Job Summary: The Chief Communications Officer (CCO) reports to the Dean of Harvard Kennedy School (HKS) and serves on the School’s Leadership Team. As Chief Communications Officer (CCO), you will motivate, lead, manage, and develop a talented team of 17+ staff that comprise Harvard Kennedy School’s Office of Communications and Public Affairs (OCPA). In coordination with the Dean’s Office, HKS research centers, and other key offices, you will design, execute, and assess integrated strategic communications that: (1) highlight the School’s strategy and priorities for both internal and external stakeholders; (2) amplify the policy impact of the School, giving “voice” to research; (3) set a strategic direction to promote and market educational programs and events; and (4) strengthen and protect the School’s institutional position and reputation. In addition, you will coordinate a network of 30+ communicators distributed across the School’s research centers and programs. The CCO will approach this mission-centered work with a high degree of strategic thinking, creativity, and discretion; a commitment to open inquiry and supporting a diverse range of backgrounds, experiences, and points of view; a willingness to experiment and take calculated risks; and a commitment to leading, maintaining, and empowering an exceptional team.

Important Application Instructions: Interested applicants should submit both a cover letter and resume. Job-Specific Responsibilities: As CCO, you will: Work closely with the Dean and Chief of Staff, as well as with other HKS senior administrators, faculty, and communications experts, in further developing and delivering an effective and innovative communications strategy that reflects and advances the School’s HKS 2036 vision, strategy, and associated priorities. By leveraging the skills and talents of the OCPA team, develop, execute, and assess integrated strategic communications programs encompassing editorial content creation, media relations, digital communications, executive communications, publications, brand management, and marketing campaigns, for both internal and external audiences, using various modalities and channels to reach different audiences. Provide leadership and effective personnel management to the OCPA team, promoting collaborative interdisciplinary teamwork, experimentation, creativity, open communication, responsible self-direction, and professional development. Act as chief spokesperson for the school with the media and oversee media relations (e.g., working with press, writing talking points and statements) for the School, to include proactive press outreach to drive the School’s message and leadership in crisis communications situations. Lead the HKS-wide communications affinity group (CAG), which includes communications