Job Summary

This position is a fully benefits-eligible term appointment beginning January 2, 2024 through June 30, 2025 with a strong possibility of renewal.

Reporting to the Associate Dean for Religion and Public Life, the Assistant Dean for Religious and Public Life oversees the administrative and programmatic aspects of RLPI to advance an ambitious agenda of curricular and programmatic activity for the Religious Literacy and the Professions Initiative (RLPI) which includes the certificate in religion and public life. Working with the RPL team and across Harvard graduate schools and in partnership with HDS and Harvard faculty as well as a network of professionals and professional organizations, the RLPI includes a program of coursework, a practitioner program, student experiential learning opportunities (including internships and field placements), annual symposia, public events, a robust program of online training opportunities, and professional/executive learning opportunities. The RLPI seeks to realize, over time, transformation in the public understanding of religion within both

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's 's degree in relevant professional field and at least 7 years management experience, including supervisory experience, preferably in academic, public, or nonprofit setting.
• Administrative experience, with demonstrated accomplishments in strategic planning, program development and evaluation, and budget oversight.
• Candidates wishing to be considered must supply a cover letter in addition to a resume.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Terminal degree or earned doctorate in a related field preferred (e.g., religious studies, ethnic studies, ministry studies, higher education administration, counseling, law, religion, social work).
• Familiarity with a range of professional fields, commitment to principles of religious literacy, and vision for the potential of advancing religious literacy in public life.
• Teaching experience in an academic setting.
• Demonstrated ability to forge new partnerships and develop new programmatic initiatives in an academic or professional environment that elevates the leadership of others.
• Demonstrated accomplishments in developing cultivating donor relationships, grant-writing, and securing funding.
• Personal commitment and prior experience as an effective facilitator, coach, and supervisor.
• Demonstrated commitment to inclusion and anti-racism in all aspects of programming.
• Exceptional interpersonal and networking skills.
• Excellent writing, editing, and communication skills.
• Willingness to embrace diversity, inclusion and belonging and support efforts to make Harvard a welcoming place for all.
• Proven ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders, including professionals from diverse fields, faculty, administrators, students, and alumnae.
• Must thrive in small entrepreneurial environment that is mission driven.
• IMPORTANT NOTE: Your cover letter and resume should be combined into a SINGLE DOCUMENT under the resume tab. Cover letters are required for every position at Harvard Divinity School.
  We regret that the Harvard Divinity School does not provide Visa sponsorship.

Working Conditions

This position is based in Cambridge, MA and requires an on-campus presence. A hybrid schedule, involving some remote work, may be possible after three months, subject to business needs and manager review/approval. HDS may adjust flex schedules as necessary or appropriate. Harvard has an established Flexwork Policy.

Please Note: We are currently conducting interviews virtually for selected candidates. Final interviews may be conducted on campus.

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.

Additional Information

Harvard Divinity School seeks to respect, understand, and learn from all cultures, beliefs, and faith backgrounds, including those who are unaffiliated with a traditional denomination, of the members of our diverse community. HDS actively seeks and welcomes people of color, women, the LGBTQIA+ community, persons with disabilities, and people at intersections of these identities.

Founded in 1816, Harvard Divinity School is most religiously diverse divinity school in the United States and is one of 12 graduate/professional schools at Harvard University. HDS is grounded in pluralism and fosters the kind of thoughtful, respectful exchange of ideas that is vital for human flourishing. The School's degree programs prepare students for careers in academia, ministry, and a wide range of roles across the nonprofit, private, and public sectors.

Salary Grade: 058

Union: 00 - Non Union, Exempt or Temporary

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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