Senior Executive Assistant

Senior Executive Assistant

Reporting to Meghan O'Sullivan, Director of the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard Kennedy School, the Senior Executive Assistant provides high-level administrative and logistical support to the Director. With minimal supervision, the Senior Executive Assistant uses sound judgment, discretion, and strong organizational skills to manage the Director's time and priorities in a fast-paced, constantly evolving environment.

The ideal candidate would be a career executive assistant who excels at anticipatory support—proactively identifying the Director's needs, surfacing issues early, and taking initiative to manage them through to resolution. They will be comfortable adapting to shifting priorities, managing multiple complex tasks simultaneously, and maintaining composure under pressure. The ideal candidate would also bring experience using new technologies, including AI models, to increase the efficiency of office operations and streamline daily processes. Please note: The position requires you to work in-person on campus for a minimum of four days per week.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Director's Calendar, Scheduling, and Engagements
• Communications, Follow-Through, and Stakeholder Relations
• Operations, Administration, and Course & Financial Support

Working Conditions:

• This position requires the ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings, as requested by the Director, particularly to support the Director's travel and participation in events and convenings.
• The position is a 40 hour a week position.
• The role is based in Cambridge, MA, with the expectation of on-site work at the Belfer Center. The position requires work in-person on campus for a minimum of four days per week.

Qualifications:

• Basic Qualifications:
• Additional Qualifications and Skills:

Additional Information:

• Appointment End Date: This is a fully benefits-eligible two year term, with the possibility of renewal.
• Standard Hours/Schedule: 40 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education
• Other Information: This position is based on campus in Cambridge, MA and required to work on-site at least 4 days/week.

Work Format Details:

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University's Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources 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 our 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.