Program Officer, Global Programs

Overview

Solve is an initiative of MIT. We believe that to achieve a more sustainable and equitable future for all, we need new voices and ideas. We launch open calls for exceptional and diverse solutions to the most pressing global challenges, from anyone, anywhere in the world. Selected innovators get the backing of MIT and our community of supporters to scale their impact and drive lasting change.

Program Officers play a crucial role in implementing MIT Solve's open innovation Challenges across our impact areas. This position executes the processes, communications, events, and workshops that power Solve's programming, while directly engaging with applicants, judges, and selected innovators. This position will initially report to Solve's Sr. Program Lead, Learning and offers opportunities to contribute to Solve's mission across Solve’s impact areas through both internal and external projects.

The role may include managing interns as appropriate.

• Staff are encouraged to work on the MIT campus but may work remotely from within the US on a regular basis
• In-person attendance is required for specific events throughout the year
• Presence in Cambridge is required for four weeks annually, plus at least one week during onboarding

• Implement Solve Challenges throughout the year, working across Solve’s content areas with a focus on but not limited to Climate or Learning
• Support Challenge design through research, stakeholders engagement, drafting challenge description, guidelines, and FAQs with guidance from Program Lead
• Collaborate with Marketing team on targeted Challenge promotion plans to ensure diverse and relevant applicant pool
• Review Challenge submissions against criteria including quality and diversity standards
• Lead finalist preparation and support, including drafting preparatory materials, coaching them through pitch recordings and preparing them for interviews and pitch events
• Support the development of judging panels, including recruitment, communications, and preparation
• Support the planning, programming, and delivery of Challenge-related sessions at Solve’s flagship events, including logistics and preparation for selected innovators to attend.
• Assist with the support programming for selected innovators, particularly Solver teams, including cohort meetups, bespoke introductions, sector-specific advice, and speaking opportunities.
• Assist with the design and implementation of custom programming as necessary, including custom events or new approaches to Solve’s standard selection and support processes.

• Maintain accurate and up-to-date Salesforce records for all Challenge-related contacts and activities
• Research and organize additional network contacts (e.g. judges, applicants, or potential funders), and external events.
• Track program metrics and assist with monitoring and evaluation of challenge outcomes
• Make recommendations for improving application and selection processes based on experience and outcomes data, in conjunction with Program Leads and Operations & Measurement staff.

• Provide insights to improve Solve’s promotion, selection and support programs
• Contribute ideas to advance Solve’s mission as a premier marketplace for social impact innovation through open innovation and transformational partnerships
• Work with the Officer of Results Measurements to take a data-driven approach to innovator support programming, measuring needs, satisfaction and results.
• Participate in cross-team initiatives to strengthen Solve’s internal operations, systems, and processes

• Minimum 3 years of experience in project/program management, or other related field required.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Self-motivated with ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Top candidates will have several of these, none are expected to have all of them.

• 3-5 years of…