Research Communications Manager, Reimagining the Economy Project

Job Description The Reimagining the Economy Project (RtE) at the Harvard Kennedy School is recruiting a Research Translation Manager. RtE is a multi-year research initiative that explores local labor market, industrial, and development policies, combined with practitioner insights, to produce multidisciplinary scholarship to reshape narratives about how we achieve inclusive prosperity. Job-Specific Responsibilities Web Strategy, Management & Impact Lead research translation for the RtE’s various digital platforms, turning complex data and methods into clear, narrative-driven stories, “how-to” guides, and explainers for non-experts. Work in close collaboration with the RtE Director on all content strategy, structure, and key messaging for the main RtE website and related initiatives (including the Economy in Place platform and a new global economic transformation website). Manage and update website content to reflect current research, events, and opportunities. Create simple, repeatable workflows for turning new research and data into content packages, using AI tools where appropriate to increase speed and consistency. Independently work with data and design partners to develop and refine visualizations and interactive features that highlight key insights, policy‑relevant patterns, and place‑based stories. Use basic analytics and A/B testing (including AI‑assisted tools where appropriate) to monitor engagement and iteratively improve the reach, clarity, and impact of RtE’s digital content. Manage relationships with communications directors of HKS and related HKS centers. Research Translation & Content Creation Translate complex RtE research (especially on industrial and place‑based policy) into clear, engaging content for non‑technical audiences (e.g., briefs, blog posts, newsletters, web copy, social media). Use AI tools (e.g., large language models, summarization, transcription) to build digital products, and draft, refine, and repurpose content while maintaining accuracy and nuance. Stay abreast of RtE’s research pipeline and relevant external developments to proactively identify high‑impact opportunities for translation, visualization, and dissemination. Storytelling, Interviews & Editorial Support Conduct interviews with policymakers, practitioners, and academics and convert them into compelling written, visual, or multimedia pieces. Provide editorial support and light project management for other contributors (faculty, practitioners, research assistants) to maintain a consistent voice, quality, and timelines. Qualifications Basic Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in economics, political science, or communications, journalism, or digital marketing. Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in digital content creation or communications. Demonstrated experience with video editing tools and basic photography and video capture. Additional Qualifications and Skills Strong writing and editing skills with experience producing content across multiple platforms. Experience working in higher education, politics, government, research communications, or mission‑driven organizations. Ability to conduct interviews and translate source material into compelling narratives. Familiarity with digital analytics, SEO best practices, and audience development. Experience working on data visualizations and with AI tools. Experience working collaboratively in a fast‑paced, matrixed communications environment. Additional Information Appointment End Date: Fully benefits eligible one‑year term appointment, with the possibility of renewal. Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education. Other Information: This position is fully on site/in‑person 5 days/week and based on our campus in Cambridge, MA. Work Format Details This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard‑designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment. Salary Grade and Ranges This position is salary grade level 056. Please visit Harvard's Salary Ranges to view the corresponding salary range and related information. Benefits Generous paid time off including parental leave. Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on 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. Learn more about these and additional benefits on Harvard's Benefits & Wellbeing Page. 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 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 or identified in the university's non‑discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non‑discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination. #J-18808-Ljbffr Conditions. Workplace Diversity, LLC.