Development Assistant, External Relations

Overview

Harvard University offers a vibrant community that advances its mission through innovation and collaboration. We are committed to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join Harvard Business School?

Harvard Business School, located on a 40-acre campus in Boston, was founded in 1908 as part of Harvard University. It is among the world s most trusted sources of management education and thought leadership. The School educates leaders who make a difference through a dynamic ecosystem of research, learning, and entrepreneurship that includes MBA, Doctoral, Executive Education, and Online programs, along with centers, institutes, and labs that shape the future of business.

In the HBS Development Office, this position performs a variety of complex administrative and project activities related to Development. Works on an interdependent team of support staff within Development, reporting to the Director of Development Administration with additional reporting lines to 3–4 frontline fundraisers whom they support in day-to-day work.

• Prepare officers for travel, including hotel and flight arrangements, itineraries, research, and materials for alumni.
• Support trip follow-up by preparing expense reports, sending follow-up materials to alumni, and entering contact reports.
• Support frontline officers with list management, giving reports, and maintaining prospect updates in Advance database.
• Research gift and academic areas to help address donor questions; assist in preparing gift proposals and ensure gift/pledge information is entered into Advance.
• Oversee planning of some high-level events, including invitation lists, invites, RSVP management, event bios, site coordination, and post-event follow-up.
• Perform data entry as needed.
• Draft, edit, and proofread correspondence; answer phones; reserve meeting space; maintain calendars; and order office supplies.
• Work with various reporting databases and software programs.
• Perform other administrative/professional responsibilities as needed.
• Build trust and collaboration by engaging directly with colleagues and constituents on-site.
• Other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications:

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent required.
• 3+ years of experience in administrative support or related roles required.
• Education beyond high school may count toward experience.
• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) experience required.

Additional

Qualifications and Skills:

• Anticipates and resolves problems to fulfill responsibilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Proven customer service, interpersonal and organizational skills.
• High attention to detail, ability to work independently, and manage interruptions to meet deadlines.
• Ability to interact across organizational levels and with alumni and donors.
• Ability to manage confidential information with discretion.
• Ability to learn new software and databases.
• Leadership within the Development Administration Team, mentoring peers, and improving processes.
• Willingness to work in a team with an all-hands-on-deck approach and a no-task-too-big-or-small attitude.
• Familiarity with Advance Web or other CRM/reporting tools and advanced Excel functions is a plus.
• Experience providing complex administrative support is a plus.

• Occasional overtime may be required; ability to work one weekend per year (May/June) for Alumni Reunions.

• Standard Hours/
  
  Schedule:
  
  40 hours per week; overtime eligible.
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University cannot provide visa sponsorship for this position.
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity.
• Other Information:
  • This is a hybrid position with both remote and onsite work at the Boston campus. Onsite presence is expected a minimum of 3 days per week unless business needs dictate otherwise.
  • Candidate interviews may be conducted virtually or in-person.
  • A cover letter is required to be considered for this opportunity.

Salary and Benefits

• Salary grade: 053. Please view Harvard's Salary Ranges for details.
• Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package supporting work-life balance and wellbeing, including paid time off, health insurance, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and strive to ensure everyone can thrive. Our equal employment opportunity policy 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.