Assistant Director, Engagement

Job Summary

The Assistant Director, Engagement is responsible for the planning, execution and management of key strategic events for Alumni Relations and Resource Development (ARRD) at Harvard Kennedy School (HKS). The Assistant Director manages all logistics for events including event budgets, speaker organization, and vendor coordination. The position works closely with colleagues within ARRD and across HKS on invitation lists, registration software, and event materials. The Assistant Director, Engagement reports to the Managing Director, Engagement.

Job-Specific Responsibilities

• In partnership with the Managing Director, Engagement manages the execution of engagement activities for key donor groups, including the Dean's Council, the Policy Spotlight Series, and other School and development activities.
• Supports planning and logistics for the seven endowed lectures that ARRD facilitates.
• Works regularly with Principal and Major Gifts Team, HKS Fund, and Alumni Relations team members to develop event project plans as well as plan and implement a yearly engagement calendar.
• Provides leadership and quality control for all event management and execution.
• Supervises drafting of briefings for events by the Engagement Coordinator and other ARRD colleagues.
• Works closely with ARRD Communications Team to ensure event messaging, content, and activities are aligned with donor engagement goals.
• Provides day-of leadership for events.
• Manages and allocates expenses to meet set budget amounts.
• Working with fundraising and alumni relations staff, develops invitation pools utilizing the Advance database.
• Plans and schedules post-event debriefs with key stakeholders.
• Serves as the on-site lead for assigned events.