Development Assistant, External Relations

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.

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. For more than a century, the School's faculty has combined a passion for teaching with rigorous research conducted alongside practitioners at world‑leading organizations to educate leaders who make a difference in the world.

Through a dynamic ecosystem of research, learning, and entrepreneurship that includes MBA, Doctoral, Executive Education, and Online programs, as well as numerous initiatives, centers, institutes, and labs, Harvard Business School fosters bold new ideas and collaborative learning networks that shape the future of business.

Working in the HBS Development Office, this position is responsible for performing a variety of complex administrative and project activities related to Development. This individual works on an interdependent team of support staff (Development Administration) within the larger Development group including Principal Gifts, Gift Opportunities, and Reunion Leadership Giving. They report to the Director of Development Administration with additional reporting lines to 3-4 frontline fundraisers whom they support in all aspects of their day to day work.

• Preparing officers for travel which may include: hotel and flight arrangements; preparing itineraries; compiling research; and preparing materials for alumni.
• Supports trip follow up by preparing expense reports, sending follow up materials to alumni, and entering contact reports.
• Supports frontline officers with list management, giving reports, and maintaining prospect updates in Advance database.
• Researches gift and academic areas to help address donor questions. May assist in preparing gift proposals and ensuring gift/pledge information is entered into Advance database.
• Oversees planning of some high‑level events, including: preparing invitation lists, sending invites, managing RSVPs, writing event bios, working with event sites, and coordinating event follow up.
• Some data entry required.
• Drafts, edits, and proofreads correspondence, answers phones, reserves meeting space, maintains calendars, and orders office supplies.
• Works regularly with a variety of different reporting databases and software programs.
• Other administrative/professional responsibilities as needed.
• Build trust and collaboration by being present on‑site and engaging directly with colleagues and various constituents.
• This role is responsible for other duties as assigned.

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

• Anticipates and resolves problems to effectively fulfill these responsibilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proven customer service, interpersonal and organizational skills
• High level of attention to detail, ability to work independently, and work effectively with interruptions to meet tight deadlines and respond quickly
• Ability to interact appropriately across all organizational levels and with alumni and donors
• Ability to manage confidential information appropriately with a high level of sensitivity and discretion
• Ability to learn new software and databases
• The ideal candidate will act as a leader amongst the greater Development Administration Team, set a positive example for staff across the team, demonstrate an inclination towards peer mentorship, and an impulse to improve processes
• This individual has a desire to work as part of a team with an all-hands‑on‑deck approach…