Program Coordinator, Democracy Informed Public Program

Position: Program Coordinator, Democracy and the Informed Public Program

Program Coordinator, Democracy and the Informed Public Program

Join to apply for the Program Coordinator, Democracy and the Informed Public Program role at Harvard Kennedy School
.

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 Description

The Program Coordinator is a key member of the Democracy and the Informed Public Program team at the Ash Center for Democratic Governance and Innovation at the Harvard Kennedy School (HKS). Their portfolio includes administrative, financial, and programmatic duties that require attention to detail, creativity, collegiality, and a basic understanding of research.

Job‑Specific Responsibilities Research and Program Support

• Compile and update shared program database.
• Conduct internet/desk research on a variety of topics.
• Format and edit PowerPoint slides, program summaries, and other overview documents.
• Schedule meetings with scholars, practitioners, and potential collaborators; book space and arrange catering as needed.
• Prepare reimbursements, invoices, corporate card reconciliations, ensuring compliance with University financial policies.
• Assist with recruiting, screening, and preparing appointment paperwork for student RAs and visiting fellows.
• Attend and contribute to team meetings.
• Additional duties as needed.

Convening and Event Logistics

• Book travel, hotel accommodations, dinner reservations, and other arrangements for invited speakers and program participants.
• Draft and send invitations, track RSVPs, send reminders, and create nametags, nameplates, attendee lists, agendas, and other event materials.
• Staff events, including setting up room layout, preparing slides, and testing microphones.

Communications

• Keep website up to date, including drafting text.
• Build and maintain list of scholars, practitioners, and students interested in the Informed Public Program.
• Collaborate with the Ash Communications team on email campaigns, newsletters, and social media.
• Develop and execute creative outreach strategies.

Qualifications Basic Qualifications

• 2 years of experience in public policy, political science, or related field.
• Relevant internships count toward experience.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Interest in public policy issues related to transparency, information, media, democratic governance.
• Experience working on a research project or interest in academic research.
• Experience managing multiple projects and working as part of a team.
• Experience with event coordination.
• Familiarity with Canva, Photoshop, PowerPoint, Excel, Salesforce, Concur, Word Press.
• Experience incorporating an equity lens into work and helping build inclusive environments.
• Bachelor’s Degree is a plus.

Additional Information

• Appointment End Date:
  Fully benefits eligible term appointment through 10/31/26, possible renewal.
• Standard
  
  Hours:
  
  35 hours per week.
• Visa Sponsorship:
  Not available.
• Pre‑Employment Screening:
  Identity verification required.

Work Format Details

The work location may be off‑campus; hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with policy on employment outside Massachusetts.

Salary Grade and Ranges

Salary grade level 054.

Benefits

• Generous paid time off including parental leave.
• Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting 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.

EEO/Non‑Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non‑discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes. Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination based on protected characteristics.

#J-18808-Ljbffr