Communications Specialist

01-Feb-2024

Harvard Divinity School

63167BR

Job Summary

The Communications Specialist works with the senior leadership at the Center for the Study of World Religions (CSWR) to develop and implement communications strategies to support and advance the Center’s mission, priorities, and programmatic activities. Working closely with CSWR affiliates and HDS staff, the Specialist leads a range of projects related to branding, storytelling, website content and design, publicity and marketing, and other collateral.

This position is a fully benefits-eligible one year term appointment from date of hire, with the possibility of two, one year extensions (3 years in total) based on funding availability and the Center's programmatic needs.

Position Description

Communications strategy

• Implement CSWR’s overall communications strategies to promote and amplify CWSR’s mission, programming and research activities;
• Serve as the CSWR’s primary storyteller, stay abreast of related work and communications efforts at Harvard and the Harvard Divinity School, and identify and leverage opportunities to generate positive news about CSWR;

• Collaborate with colleagues at the HDS communications office and HPAC to coordinate the release of news from CSWR and advance CSWR research work and programs, respond to press inquiries, and proactively pitch stories to the press.

Message/Content Development: 

• Develop key messages, press releases, talking points, case studies and other materials in support of CSWR programming and research publications from CSWR Director and researchers;
• Interview and work with CSWR Director and researchers to develop content. Research and write news stories, feature articles, and profiles for internal and external audiences.
• Develop and edit content for CSWR newsletter, annual report, brochures, videos, presentations, or other vehicles and manage editorial/publication schedule;
• Edit content produced by other CSWR members and contracted contributors, ensure adherence to University/CSWR brand standards and guidelines, and alignment with CSWR mission;
• Maintain vibrant, dynamic website presence by working closely with members of the CSWR team; help formulate strategies and execute on plan for future enhancements to the websites, including working with third parties;
• Coordinate CSWR’s online presence including website, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram and other emerging channels/platforms. Identify opportunities and create high-impact content, in alignment with the CSWR voice and brand standards.
• Be responsible for all audiovisual content to conform to Harvard University’s accessibility guidelines (closed captioning, etc.)

Contract Coordination:

• Monitor work of external contracted writers and other business partners (consultants and vendors) as needed. This may include engagement definition, contract negotiation, daily project management, analysis of engagement recommendations and implementation of recommendations.
• Create quarterly analytics reports of existing digital strategies, establish key metrics, and identify actionable recommendations. Develop and execute content strategies to maximize engagement with CSWR website and social media platforms;
• Other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

3 years of progressive experience in communications, marketing, or related field. Demonstrated experience in writing and public relations, leveraging and integrating a variety of media, including print, online, multimedia, and social media, are required.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

Bachelor’s degree in English, communications, journalism, public relations, or related field is preferred. Exceptional written and verbal communications skills are required. Demonstrated ability to develop stories and narratives to promote research in creative ways through a variety of media. A solid grasp of technology and understanding of media trends and applications. Must be able to provide sound communications advice, demonstrate excellent judgment on complex issues, and successfully manage multiple projects simultaneously, working with numerous clients and stakeholders, under pressure of deadlines. Must have the ability to innovate, think conceptually, and listen carefully. Experience with Adobe Suites, website content management system such as WordPress, and Mailchimp or similar email marketing campaigns strongly preferred.Demonstrated experience as a collaborator and team builder. The position also requires a high level of professionalism, sound and mature judgment, and collegiality. Must have excellent planning, project management and organizational skills. 

Working Conditions

This position is based in Cambridge, MA and requires an on-campus presence. A hybrid schedule, involving some remote work, may be possible after three months, subject to business needs and manager review/approval. HDS may adjust flex schedules as necessary or appropriate. Harvard has an established Flexwork Policy . 

This position is a fully benefits-eligible one year term appointment from date of hire, with the possibility of two, one year extensions (3 years in total) based on funding availability and the Center's programmatic needs.

Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard’s Total Rewards website to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:

• Flex-work options at HDS, including an optional summer compressed workweek if applicable to position (end of May through mid-August)
• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year (3 weeks for support staff and 4 weeks for administrative/professional staff), 12 accrued sick days per year, 12.5 holidays plus a Winter Recess in December/January, 3 personal days per year (prorated based on date of hire), and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents who are primary care givers.
• Health and Welfare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs, along with voluntary benefits. Most coverage begins as of your start date.
• Work/Life and Wellness: Child and elder/adult care resources including on campus childcare centers, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs related to stress management, nutrition, meditation, and more.
• Retirement: University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation, based on age and earnings with full vesting after 3 years of service.
• Tuition Assistance Program: Competitive program including $40 per class at the Harvard Extension School and reduced tuition through other participating Harvard graduate schools.
• Tuition Reimbursement: Program that provides 75% to 90% reimbursement up to $5,250 per calendar year for eligible courses taken at other accredited institutions.
• Professional Development: Programs and classes at little or no cost, including through the Harvard Center for Workplace Development and LinkedIn Learning.
• Commuting and Transportation: Various commuter options handled through the Parking Office, including discounted parking, half-priced public transportation passes and pre-tax transit passes, biking benefits, and more.
• Harvard Facilities Access, Discounts and Perks: Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, campus events, credit union, and more, as well as discounts to various types of services (legal, financial, etc.) and cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.

Job Function

General Administration

Department Office Location

USA - MA - Cambridge

Job Code

403040 Coordinator II

Department

Center for the Study of World Religions

Union

55 - Hvd Union Cler & Tech Workers

Pre-Employment Screening

Education, Identity

Schedule

Standard schedule Monday- Friday 9-5; Weekend or evening work may be required based on the CSWR programming calendar.

Commitment to Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Harvard University views equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging as the pathway to achieving inclusive excellence and fostering a campus culture where everyone can thrive. We strive to create a community that draws upon the widest possible pool of talent to unify excellence and diversity while fully embracing individuals from varied backgrounds, cultures, races, identities, life experiences, perspectives, beliefs, and values.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, or any other characteristic protected by law.