Ombuds

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Why join Harvard University Ombuds Office?

The Harvard University Ombuds Office
-located in Cambridge and Boston, is part of Harvard University Central Administration. The Ombuds Office provides independent dispute resolution services to Harvard faculty, staff, students, trainees and appointees at the affiliated institutions whose concerns are impacting their work or studies. The Ombuds Office provides visitors with a highly confidential, impartial and informal forum in which to clarify their concerns, identify their goals and consider all of their options in managing or resolving their concerns.

Options can range from simply talking about problems to filing a formal complaint. The Ombuds Office provides coaching in written and verbal communications, one-on-one and group meeting facilitation, shuttle diplomacy, upward feedback, information about policies/procedures and resources, and training. Any issue may be brought to the Ombuds Office.

The University Ombuds Office is seeking to hire an Ombuds I position to join its Cambridge team.

This is a benefits eligible term position through June 2028 with the possibility of extension.

Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

• Assist visitors in identifying and considering their concerns, goals and potential options for next steps. Assist with clarification of university policies and procedures as needed.
• Conduct informal fact‑finding to promote a better understanding of the issues, as appropriate.
• Provide conflict coaching, informal mediation, group facilitation, shuttle diplomacy.
• Consult with faculty and/or managers to develop general cooperative strategies for complaint resolution. Provide referrals to other resources as needed.
• Work closely with key offices serving faculty, staff, students and/or trainees.

• Provide ongoing education and communication about the Ombuds Office and its role to all Harvard‑connected members.
• Conduct trainings currently offered through the Ombuds Office. Design and conduct new trainings as needed in the areas of negotiation and conflict resolution skills, authorship best practices and other related topics.

• Serve as a campus resource for those formulating or modifying policies and procedures
• Maintain non-identifying visitor statistics and general statistics regarding trainings and presentations for the annual report and share statistics as requested and deemed appropriate by the office.

• Takes all steps to ensure the integrity of the Harvard Ombuds Office is maintained at all times, including upholding its standards regarding confidentiality, impartiality, independence, and informality;
• Responds to all individuals in a timely way and treats all with respect and professionalism;
• Contributes to an environment that fosters emotional and physical safety for all visitors and office staff;
• Works collaboratively and effectively with the Ombuds team in all aspects of work;
• Coordinates all aspects of work including some scheduling of visitors, organizing of training materials, and other administrative tasks as needed

Basic Qualifications a candidate must meet to be considered for this role.

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Minimum five years demonstrated experience in ombudsing, conflict resolution, mediation and/or negotiation or related field.
• Demonstrated experience in…