Assistant Director of Programs

The Center for Climate, Health and the Global Environment, Department of Environmental Health, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health (Harvard Chan C-CHANGE) is committed to tackling issues that are essential for building healthy, just, and sustainable communities. Through rigorous research, we evaluate and advance solutions that will enable the healthiest, most equitable path forward, especially for communities that are most vulnerable to climate change. Our work addresses climate impacts at every level: individuals; health care systems; communities and cities; and national and global policy.
Reporting to Tracy Sachs, Administrative Director, the Assistant Director of Programs is responsible for developing, managing, and executing strategic programs, partnerships, educational initiatives, and engagement activities that advance the Center’s mission, visibility, and impact. This role oversees a diverse portfolio that includes external partnerships, advisory board engagement, educational programming, and events. Working closely with Center leadership and external stakeholders, the Assistant Director of Programs helps strengthen the Center’s profile and influence while creating opportunities for meaningful collaboration in advancing climate health solutions.
Job Summary:
Job-Specific Responsibilities:
Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
Strategic Programs, Partnerships & Outreach
Provide leadership for the development, implementation, and growth of strategic programs and partnerships that advance the Center’s educational, research, and outreach goals.
Responsibilities include:
Develop and manage strategic partnerships with academic institutions, nonprofits, government agencies, industry leaders, and community organizations
Identify, cultivate, and steward collaborative opportunities that support the Center’s mission and strategic objectives
Build and strengthen relationships across Harvard University and external partners to foster innovative collaborations
Collaborate with faculty and researchers to identify opportunities for new programs and initiatives
Develop proposals and support fundraising efforts related to programmatic and partnership activities
Conduct stakeholder interviews and represent the Center in meetings, forums, and collaborative initiatives
Support the creation of communications materials that highlight program impact and partnership success
Monitor, evaluate, and report on program outcomes and partnership effectiveness
Advisory Board Leadership & External Engagement
Provide strategic leadership and operational management for the Center’s External Advisory Board and stakeholder engagement activities.
Responsibilities include:
Manage the Center’s Advisory Board engagement strategy including identifying and vetting prospects
Coordinate board recruitment, onboarding, stewardship, and communications
Organize and facilitate board meetings, including agenda development, materials preparation, and follow-up
Partner with Center leadership to identify opportunities for board engagement and strategic input
Foster strong relationships with board members and key external stakeholders
Develop strategies that leverage advisory board expertise, networks, and influence to advance Center priorities
Track board recommendations, engagement activities, and outcomes
Events, Educational Programs & Community Engagement
Lead the development and execution of educational programming, events, and public engagement initiatives that expand the Center’s reach and impact.
Responsibilities include:
Develop annual programming and engagement plans aligned with Center priorities
Identify, evaluate, and manage opportunities for conferences, workshops, summits, lectures, and other educational events
Design program content and participant experiences that support learning and engagement objectives
Recruit and coordinate speakers, faculty, researchers, policymakers, practitioners, and community leaders
Oversee event logistics, registration systems, website content, promotional materials, and participant communications
Collaborate with University departments, centers, student organizations, and external partners on shared programming opportunities
Evaluate program effectiveness and use data to inform future planning and continuous improvement
Perform other duties as assigned
PLEASE NOTE: This position has a term appointment of two years from date of hire with the possibility of extension.
Basic Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience is required.
5+ years of relevant experience is required.
Additional Qualifications and Skills:
Experience in program management, partnership development, or external relations within a nonprofit, academic, or public health/environmental organization
Experience managing or supporting an advisory board or similar governance body
Experience with proposal development and fundraising for programmatic or partnership initiatives are preferred
Experience with standard computer software such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
Independent judgment, patience, and excellent communication skills
Organization and attention to detail
Flexibility and work effectively with a team
Maintain a calm and cooperative attitude during periods of increased activity

Employment type
Full-time

Work arrangement
Hybrid