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Harvard University

Director of Development

Closes:

79

Company Description 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. Why join the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health? The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health is a world-renowned institution dedicated to advancing public health through cutting-edge research, education, and global collaboration. Our school is a special place to work because of its vibrant, mission-driven community, interdisciplinary approach, and commitment to addressing some of the most pressing health challenges worldwide. We foster a collaborative and inclusive work environment where innovation, continuous learning, and work-life balance are valued. Learn more about the School’s mission, objectives, and core values , our Principles of Citizenship , and about the Dean’s AAA vision about our school’s ongoing strategic initiatives. Job Description Job Summary: The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Office of Development and Alumni Relations (ODAR) is committed to securing the financial resources, time, and loyalty of alumni, friends, corporations, and foundations to promote the School’s work of educating new generations of global health leaders and producing powerful ideas that can transform the lives of people everywhere. Reporting to the Managing Director of Development, the Director of Development (the Director) works within an entrepreneurial and dynamic School environment and closely collaborates with faculty, senior school administrators and University development colleagues to independently manage a portfolio of prospects who have the capacity to give $250,000 or more, secure funding for School priorities, and meet or exceed department revenue goals. The Director is responsible for identifying, qualifying, cultivating, soliciting, and stewarding a portfolio of major gift prospects in assigned regions. The Director will also play a leadership role in the annual strategy planning process, take on additional related projects, and recommend strategies to enhance fundraising in collaboration with senior staff and Harvard Chan colleagues, as well as Alumni Affairs and Development more broadly at Harvard. The incumbent will represent Harvard Chan School at events, meetings, and off-site presentations and will engage in extensive travel to meet with prospects and donors. This position will contribute to meeting and exceeding department revenue goals by developing and executing prospect strategies, cultivating and stewarding prospects and donors and directly soliciting gifts. This position will also advise and work closely with faculty, leaders in School departments, centers and/or research programs to further their fundraising strategy in alignment with broad School priorities. The successful candidate will be a team player who collaborates freely and builds trust with donors, alumni, friends and school partners, including but not limited to the Office of Communications, Office for Research Strategy and Development and the University Alumni Affairs and Development team. Job-Specific Responsibilities: Manages a portfolio of 100-125 prospects in assigned regions and at various stages of their relationship. Travels approximately 50% of the time (local Boston and nationally as assigned). Some international travel may be required pending portfolio assignments. Develops appropriate cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship strategy to enhance retention, grow revenue, and improve donor advancement. Will be required to meet annual individual revenue and moves management goals. - Makes a minimum of 100 visits annually. Qualifies, progresses, and cultivates newly identified prospects and evaluates major gift potential and next steps. As needed, utilizes email, digital, and phone outreach to meaningfully contact prospects outside of typical travel areas. In collaboration with the University Planned Giving office, develops educational marketing materials for donors and prospects, and participates in internal team training on planned giving trends and tax implications. Ensures compliance with University polices and guidelines.   Coordinates closely with faculty and administrators to provide guidance on, and help implement, fundraising strategy. Works strategically with volunteers to encourage them to build bridges and utilize their networks to help Harvard Chan School develop stronger relationships with other prominent alumni and friends.  Drafts briefings and correspondence for faculty and School leader, including the Dean. Works with the Vice Dean, Managing Director and ODAR colleagues to strategize and plan development trips. Coordinates all aspects of development travel including prospect identification and follow-up correspondence. Drafts contact reports. Staffs faculty or senior administrators in meetings with donors.  Works with prospect management and research to ensure research and due diligence is completed. Works with the ODAR development communications staff to ensure talking points are written for the Dean or other senior administrators for speaking engagements. Drafts gift proposals and other materials with support from development communications and donor relations staff as needed. Works closely with other Major Gift Officers, Alumni Affairs and other ODAR colleagues in the development of on-campus events and programs that will lead to increased high-level involvement of alumni, donors and friends. The above covers the most significant responsibilities of this position. It does not, however, exclude other duties, the inclusion of which would be in conformity with the level of the position. PLEASE NOTE: This role will require approximately 50% travel, mostly domestically, but may have the opportunity for some international travel as well. The role may occasionally require evening and weekend work to ensure smooth execution of events. Qualifications Basic Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience is required. 8+ years of relevant experience is required. Excellent communications skills, both oral and written. Advanced understanding of fundraising. Work well in a busy office with competing demands; not easily flustered nor easily overwhelmed by a high volume of activity and projects. Proven aptitude for successfully managing a robust portfolio, including setting priorities that enable meeting fundraising and visit goals. Demonstrated track record in soliciting and closing six-and seven-figure gifts in a complex environment. Experience working with a diverse constituency. Strong knowledge of MS Office and experience learning new software quickly. Additional Qualifications and Skills: International fundraising experience is a plus. Integrity and trust with a demonstrated knowledge in managing highly confidential information. Aptitude for creative problem solving. Proficiency in analyzing and explaining data. Experience with planned giving terms and strategies and the knowledge for guiding, collaborating and advising colleagues in planned giving preferred. Additional Information Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education   Join the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health to support our mission of health research and education, and to be a part of the oldest institution of higher learning in the country!  --------------------  The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health does not provide visa sponsorship, now or in the future, for staff positions.  Harvard University requires pre-employment reference checks and background screenings.  This position has a 180 day orientation and review period.   --------------------  The health of our workforce is a priority for Harvard University. With that in mind, we strongly encourage all employees to be up to date on CDC-recommended vaccines.  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 059. Please visit   Harvard's Salary Ranges   to view the corresponding salary range and related information.  Benefits Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:  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.

Job details

Title
Director of Development
Employer
Harvard University
Location
Massachusetts Hall, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
Published
Sep 29, 2026
Closes:
Nov 28, 2026
Job type
Full time, Staff / Administration
Field
Development and Fundraising

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About the employer

Harvard University Jobs

Harvard University

4.0 Star Employer Ranking

Harvard University offers a diverse range of job and work opportunities across various categories, reflecting its status as a leading academic and research institution. These opportunities cater to different skill sets, academic backgrounds, and career stages. Harvard University Academic Positions - click here . Harvard University Staff Jobs - click here . The main types of jobs and work opportunities at Harvard: 1. Faculty and Academic Positions Tenure-Track Faculty : These roles include assistant, associate, and full professors across Harvard’s schools (e.g., Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Harvard Medical School, Harvard Business School). Faculty engage in teaching, research, and service. Qualifications typically include a Ph.D. or equivalent terminal degree, a strong research portfolio, and teaching experience. Openings vary by department and school, with competitive hiring processes. Non-Tenure-Track Faculty : Includes lecturers, preceptors, and visiting professors. These roles focus primarily on teaching or short-term research projects and may require a Ph.D. or significant expertise in the field. Research Appointments : Postdoctoral fellowships, research associates, and scientists work on cutting-edge research in fields like medicine, engineering, humanities, and social sciences. These positions often require advanced degrees and are funded through grants or specific research programs. 2. Administrative and Professional Staff Administrative Roles : These include positions in academic administration (e.g., deans’ offices, registrar, admissions), student services, and program management. Examples include academic program coordinators, admissions officers, and financial aid advisors. These roles often require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and relevant experience. Professional Staff : Harvard employs professionals in areas like human resources, finance, communications, development (fundraising), and alumni relations. Examples include HR specialists, financial analysts, and marketing managers. These positions typically require specialized skills or certifications. Executive and Leadership Roles : Senior positions like directors, department heads, or executive administrators oversee operations in specific units or schools. These roles demand extensive experience and leadership skills. 3. Research and Laboratory Staff Research Support Staff : Includes lab managers, research technicians, and data analysts who support faculty and postdoctoral researchers in labs across disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and medicine. These roles often require technical skills, such as proficiency in lab equipment or data analysis software. Clinical Research Roles : At Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, clinical research coordinators and specialists support medical and health-related studies. These positions may require certifications like Good Clinical Practice (GCP) training. 4. Technical and IT Staff Information Technology : Harvard employs IT professionals for roles like systems administrators, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and data scientists to support its technological infrastructure. These positions require expertise in areas like cloud computing, AI, or network management. Library and Information Services : Harvard’s extensive library system hires librarians, archivists, and digital resource specialists. These roles often require a master’s degree in library science or related fields. 5. Support and Operations Staff Facilities and Operations : Includes roles in maintenance, custodial services, groundskeeping, and security. These positions ensure the smooth operation of Harvard’s campus and may not require advanced degrees but often need specific training or certifications. Dining and Hospitality : Harvard’s dining services employ chefs, food service workers, and catering staff to support campus dining halls and events. Administrative Support : Roles like executive assistants, office managers, and receptionists provide critical support to departments and faculty. 6. Student and Temporary Opportunities Student Employment : Harvard offers on-campus jobs for students, including work-study positions in libraries, dining halls, labs, and administrative offices. These roles are typically part-time and designed to accommodate academic schedules. Temporary and Seasonal Work : Temporary roles, such as event staff or short-term project assistants, are available for non-students as well. These are often listed through Harvard’s temporary staffing services. 7. Medical and Healthcare Roles Clinical and Healthcare Staff : Through Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals (e.g., Massachusetts General Hospital, Brigham and Women’s Hospital), opportunities exist for physicians, nurses, medical technicians, and other healthcare professionals. These roles require medical licenses or certifications. Public Health Professionals : The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health employs researchers, policy analysts, and program managers focused on global health initiatives. 8. Creative and Media Roles Arts and Culture : Harvard’s museums (e.g., Harvard Art Museums) and cultural institutions hire curators, educators, and exhibition staff. The American Repertory Theater employs artists, stage managers, and production staff. Communications and Media : Roles in writing, graphic design, social media, and public relations support Harvard’s outreach and branding efforts. Key Characteristics of Harvard Jobs Diversity of Roles : Harvard’s workforce spans academic, administrative, technical, and operational functions, with opportunities for both entry-level and highly specialized professionals. Competitive Benefits : Harvard offers comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition assistance, and professional development. Faculty and staff also gain access to Harvard’s libraries, museums, and cultural events. Global Impact : Many roles, especially in research and public health, contribute to global advancements in knowledge and policy. Location : Most positions are based in Cambridge or Boston, Massachusetts, with some remote or hybrid options, particularly for administrative and IT roles. How to Find Opportunities Harvard Careers Portal : The primary resource for job listings is Harvard’s Human Resources website (hr.harvard.edu/jobs), which lists openings for faculty, staff, and temporary roles. School-Specific Listings : Each Harvard school (e.g., Harvard College, Harvard Law School) may post specialized positions on their websites. Networking and Referrals : Many academic and research roles are filled through professional networks or direct outreach to departments. X Platform : Searching for “Harvard University jobs” on X can reveal real-time discussions, job postings, or employee experiences, though these should be verified through official channels. Additional Notes Qualifications : Requirements vary widely. Faculty roles typically need advanced degrees, while support roles may prioritize experience or specific skills. Work Environment : Harvard emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and collaboration, with opportunities for professional growth and community engagement. Application Process : Most positions require an online application through Harvard’s careers portal, including a resume, cover letter, and sometimes additional materials like teaching statements or research portfolios.

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