Director of Administration and Operations

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.

Job Summary :
Reporting to the Chair of the History Department and the Administrative Dean for the Social Science Division, the Director of Administration and Operations position is responsible for the overall strategic management of the administrative, financial, and staff operations of the department. In consultation with FAS HR, manages human resources for staff, including recruiting, performance management, compensation, staff relations, and training. Directly supervises departmental staff responsible for the graduate and undergraduate programs, academic and faculty support, office management, and financial administration. Works closely with the Social Sciences Administrative Support Group to provide additional faculty, financial and IT desktop support. Works with contacts in the Physical Resources Office for all building-related issues, including repairs, maintenance, and refurbishing as needed. In collaboration with the Department Chair, sets strategic objectives and allocates resources to support these objectives. Works with FAS Finance to develop the departmental budget, monitor spending, and oversee payroll and sponsored research activities.

Position Description :
Develops and implements policies and procedures for effective administration of the department. Serves as a primary source of policy information for faculty and staff. Works with the Chair and faculty committees on policy and planning matters and visiting committee activities. Collaborates with the Division of Social Science and the Academic Dean of the Division to ensure that Department administrative procedures are in line with the Department’s core mission and university policies. Acts as liaison to and works closely with FAS and University offices. Handles special projects for the Chair and performs all other duties as required. Attends and functions as a contributing member of Department committees and external committees within FAS.

Basic Qualifications :
Bachelor’s degree required. Must possess at least seven years of progressively responsible administrative management experience, including staff supervision and financial management, in an academic or research environment.

Additional Qualifications and Skills :
Ability to work as a member of a team in cooperation with a diverse constituency, from administrative staff to students and faculty. Must have excellent written and oral communication skills as well as strong leadership, interpersonal, and negotiation skills. Must be comfortable with technology and possess strong computer skills