Communications Officer

23-Oct-2024

Communications Officer

Faculty of Arts and Sciences

67204BR

Job Summary

Department of Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology (SCRB) and Harvard Stem Cell Institute (HSCI) are seeking an experienced Communications Officer to support the communication needs of our vibrant, interactive, and discovery-focused academic department and Institute. The Communications Officer works with senior leadership, faculty and staff to develop and implement internal and external communications strategies that support and advance HSCRB's and HSCI's missions, initiatives, priorities, and activities.

Position Description

Strategic Communications: 

• Reporting to the HSCRB and HSCI Executive Directors (EDs), design, lead, and implement overall communications and branding strategy to promote and amplify HSCRB's and HSCI's missions, initiatives, priorities, and activities, in a manner that is responsive to diverse audiences.
• Serve as the Department's and Institute's primary storyteller, staying abreast of Harvard's work in stem cell and regenerative biology and related fields, and identifying and leveraging opportunities to generate positive news in these areas that highlight HSCRB and HSCI.
• Facilitate internal knowledge sharing and timely communications within HSCRB and HSCI by developing, maintaining, and disseminating newsletters, annual reports, electronic communications platforms, and other ad hoc and special communications systems.
• With input from the HSCRB and HSCI EDs, Chairs, and faculty, critically evaluate the effectiveness of communication campaigns and adjust plans and strategies as needed.

Media Relations: 

• Collaborate with colleagues at multiple different Harvard University communications offices (e.g., Harvard Public Affairs and Communications (HPAC), Provost’s Office, etc.) and with those at the Harvard affiliated hospitals to coordinate the release of news from HSCRB and HSCI, respond to press inquiries, and proactively pitch stories to the press.
• Work directly with campus media and external media, proactively developing and maintaining relationships with international, national, regional, local and vertical news media.
• Support the organization and management of press events, helping to prepare faculty and leadership (Department Chairs, Institute Directors, and EDs) for media opportunities.

Message/Content Development: 

• Generate key messages and public statements, press releases, talking points, FAQs, briefings, and other materials to support communication of research discoveries, publications and achievements from HSCRB and HSCI faculty.
• Interview and work with faculty members to develop research and education related content. Research and write science news stories, feature articles, and faculty/student/program profiles for internal and external audiences.
• Develop and edit content for internal and external newsletters, annual and other reports, brochures, videos, presentations, grant submissions, publications, course materials, events, or other vehicles.
• In partnership with the EDs, draft correspondence and talking points for the Department Chairs, Institute Directors and other leaders from HSCRB/HSCI, as needed.
• Collaborate with department and Institute faculty and staff to develop and implement marketing and promotion campaigns for HSCB and HSCI events, programs, and special initiatives.
• Edit content produced by other members of HSCRB/HSCI and contracted contributors, ensuring adherence to University/Department/Institute brand standards and guidelines, and alignment with University/Department/Institute missions and academic norms.
• Work closely with members of the Department and Institute to develop and direct website content to maintain an up-to-date web presence for HSCRB and HSCI.
• With input from EDs, Chairs and Directors, formulate strategies and execute plans for future enhancements to the HSCRB and HSCI websites, including working with third parties.
• Manage Department/Institute social media presence including websites, Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram and additional new or emerging channels/platforms. Identify opportunities and create high-impact content, in alignment with the voice of HSCRB and HSCI.
• Manage overall editorial/publication schedule.

See additional duties under Additional Information

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in English, communications, journalism, public relations, or related scientific field is required as is 7 years of progressive experience in communications, science communications, marketing, or related field.   
• Demonstrated experience in science writing or science-related public relations, leveraging and integrating a variety of media, including print, online, multimedia, and social media, are required.
• Must have experience developing communications strategies, managing media relations, or serving as a spokesperson.
• Must have familiarity with multiple electronic communications platforms.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

Exceptional written and verbal communications skills are required. Demonstrated ability to develop stories and narratives to promote science in creative ways through a variety of media. A solid grasp of technology and understanding of scientific trends and applications in discovery and medicine. Must be able to provide sound strategic communications advice, demonstrate excellent judgment on complex issues, and successfully manage multiple projects simultaneously, working with numerous clients and stakeholders, under pressure of deadlines. Experience with Adobe Suites, website content management system such as WordPress, Mailchimp or similar email marketing campaigns and electronic communications/social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, X, Slack) strongly preferred.

Must have the ability to innovate, think strategically and conceptually, listen carefully, as well as to advise senior leaders effectively and influence and persuade others.

Demonstrated experience as a strong manager, collaborator and team builder and an ability to work effectively within a highly-decentralized environment. The position also requires an extremely high level of professionalism, motivation, sound and mature judgment, and collegiality. Must have excellent planning, project management, and organizational skills. Master’s degree, or higher, is preferred.

Additional Information

Management & Coordination:

·      Oversee work of external contracted writers, CO-OP students, business partners (e.g., consultants and vendors) and other stakeholders as needed. This may include engagement definition, establishing the Scope of Work, contract negotiation, project planning and management, analysis of engagement recommendations, and implementation of recommendations.

·      Create monthly and quarterly analytics reports of existing digital strategies, establish key metrics, and identify actionable recommendations. Develop and execute content strategies to maximize engagement with our websites and social media platforms.

·      Partner with communications colleagues at HPAC, the Provost's Office, FAS, HMS, and the affiliated hospitals to advance HSCRB/HSCI research discovery and education stories.

·      Coordinate with University Development Office/Alumni Affairs and Development on outreach to HSCI and HSCRB donors, including recurring events such as semi-annual HSCI Directors’ Calls.

·      Lead crisis communications.

·      Other duties as assigned.

Work Format Details

This is a hybrid position that is based in Massachusetts. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. All remote work must be performed within one of the Harvard Registered Payroll States.

Benefits

We invite you to visit Harvard's Total Rewards website (https://hr.harvard.edu/totalrewards) to learn more about our outstanding benefits package, which may include:

• 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

Communications

Department Office Location

USA - MA - Cambridge

Job Code

CM0858 Communications Management III

Work Format

Hybrid (partially on-site, partially remote)

Sub-Unit

Sciences

Salary Grade

058

Department

Stem Cell and Regenerative Biology

Union

00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary

Time Status

Full-time

Pre-Employment Screening

Education, Identity

Schedule

35 hours per week

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.

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