Managing Director, Office of the Vice Provost for Advances in Learning

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Why join Harvard University Office of the Vice Provost for Advances in Learning (VPAL) ?

The Office of the Vice Provost for Advances in Learning (VPAL) creates and catalyzes deeply engaging and scalable learning experiences that make a difference at Harvard and beyond. Working closely with faculty, VPAL’s staff (1) work with Harvard faculty to create impactful on-line courses, (2) support Harvard Schools in ongoing efforts to improve residential teaching and learning, (3) develop software tools that support both the classroom and administrative aspect of teaching and learning, and (4) support a variety of faculty committees convened to provide institutional advice, guidance and oversight. The Office of the Vice Provost for Advances in Learning (VPAL) is part of Harvard University's Central Administration (CADM). To learn more about VPAL, visit http://vpal.harvard.edu.  

Reporting jointly to the Vice Provost for Advances in Learning and the Deputy Provost for Strategic Initiatives, the Managing Director, VPAL, is a key leadership position responsible for leading and managing all the Department’s production and administrative staff and functions, including Course Creation, Marketing, Human Resources, Finance, and Technology, as well as oversight of LabXchange.  The Managing Director is a trusted advisor and strategic thought partner to the Vice Provost and works closely with them to plan and manage VPAL’s strategic initiatives and develop its short- and long-term financial and operational plans. The Managing Director sees the big picture, thinks strategically with an emphasis on driving strong project management and execution, while balancing day-to-day needs and objectives. 

Please note: This is an 18-month benefits eligible term position with the possibility of renewal.

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Major responsibilities of the Managing Director include but are not limited to:

Managerial Responsibilities:

• Lead, direct, and manage the department’s 80+ person staff.
• Oversee all aspects of department’s +$22 million budget.
• Develop and execute on department goals and objectives.
• Create and maintain high morale within the organization.
• Ensure training and development plans are in place for staff at all levels.

Strategic Direction and Execution:

• Collaborate with VPAL on department strategy and execution. 
• Manage director leadership team to translate strategic priorities into project plans, timelines/metrics, milestones and status reporting.
• Act as thought partner to VPAL  on all aspects of department initiatives, including ongoing transformation of course development/production processes, application of AI and technology tools, and continuous improvement. 
• Reality test new ideas and initiatives.
• Manage faculty-related issues as directed by the VPAL. 

Build Relationships:

• Ensure and develop strong relationships with key stakeholders within Harvard University leadership, Harvard schools, and external constituents. 
• Engage with faculty across the university in the support of VPAL efforts.

Financial Oversight:

• Oversee VPAL's financial portfolio, ensuring that resources are used effectively and efficiently, maintaining a strong financial position while making strategic investments in people and projects.   Lead directors in execution of strategies to improve unit economics.
• Responsible for the oversight of department’s annual budget, multi-year financial plans.
• Negotiate contracts on behalf of department.
• Partners with Senior Director of Finance to develop financial models and plans.
• Work with the Vice Provost to coordinate efforts with the University Development Office to define fundraising priorities, develop philanthropic proposals, and support work with donors.

Supports University-Wide Initiatives:

• On behalf of VPAL, coordinate a wide variety of University-wide initiatives.

Basic Qualifications a candidate must meet to be considered for this role.

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Minimum of 15 years of relevant experience, including leadership roles. Management experience and coaching professional level direct reports and their teams.

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• M.B.A. or equivalent.
• Supervisory experience managing in multi-layered organization a plus, demonstrated ability to work with and manage team members from a variety of backgrounds, disciplines and levels of expertise.
• Ability to work consistently and constructively in a fast-paced, highly matrixed environment.
• Ability to influence and engage regarding confidential matters with appropriate discretion.
• Comfortable with ambiguity and nuance while maintaining a proactive solution-oriented approach to clarify and simplify complex projects.
• Strong project management experience.
• Excellent interpersonal and verbal/written communication skills.
• Strong financial acumen and analytic skills. 
• Basic understanding of higher education pedagogical contexts and priorities.
• Aptitude for learning and applying new technologies quickly and effectively.
• Experience in online learning, educational media, education publishing, or academic technology helpful.

• Appointment End Date: This is an 18-month benefits eligible term position with the possibility of renewal.
• Location: This is an on campus position located in Cambridge, MA.
• Visa Sponsorship: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Harvard University requires pre-employment reference and background screenings: Identity and Education
• Other Information : This position will have a 6-month orientation and review period.

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that all duties and responsibilities must be performed at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location. Certain visa types may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 063. 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.