Reunion Class Manager, Alumni Relations

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join Harvard Business School?

Harvard Business School, located on a 40-acre campus in Boston, was founded in 1908 as part of Harvard University. It is among the world's most trusted sources of management education and thought leadership. For more than a century, the School's faculty has combined a passion for teaching with rigorous research conducted alongside practitioners at world-leading organizations to educate leaders who make a difference in the world. Through a dynamic ecosystem of research, learning, and entrepreneurship that includes MBA, Doctoral, Executive Education, and Online programs, as well as numerous initiatives, centers, institutes, and labs, Harvard Business School fosters bold new ideas and collaborative learning networks that shape the future of business.

Job Description

Job Summary:

Reporting to the Associate Director of Reunions, the Reunion Class Manager will be part of the Alumni Relations (AR) Reunions team responsible for ensuring the exceptional execution of Reunions for Harvard Business School.  Through a commitment to lifelong learning and engagement, the AR team is at the hub of cultivating and stewarding the alumni community in their affinity and connection to HBS.  HBS Reunions are fundamental to this effort.  Each year, over 6,200 alumni and their guests come back to campus for 3-4 days to re-engage with section mates, classmates, faculty and the School. 

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

• Independently manage and execute an individual portfolio of high level, complex Reunion classes
• Engage with reunion volunteer leaders and committee members to plan and create a meaningful and holistic reunion experience that includes class and section programs and activities
• Provide expertise in coordinating and executing events through the planning, oversight and execution of class related receptions, dinners and events during on-campus reunions
• Recruit and maintain close relations with alumni volunteers to coordinate reunion activities, alumni engagement programs and other related events
• Collaborate closely with Reunion & Leadership Giving Officers in Development to support fundraising efforts
• Manage and implement a portfolio of special projects and strategic initiatives as assigned
• Establish strong working relationship with alumni, volunteers, colleagues, vendors, leaders, and other constituents; act as liaison between reunion classes and HBS
• Engage in operational duties associated with class management including class related budgeting and fee setting
• On-site reunion management, as needed (estimated 80-100 hours/week 2-3 times a year)
• Build trust and collaboration by being present on-site and engaging directly with colleagues and various constituents
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent is required.
• 5+ years of directly related and specific experience in event planning and volunteer management is required. 
• Education beyond high school may count toward experience.
• Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook) experience is a must

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

• Advanced organizational skills and the ability to meet deadlines and adhere to strict schedules on multiple projects for individual assignments as well as those of the team.
• Able to relate to high-powered alumni constituency with poise and self-confidence. Strong professional, interpersonal, team and leadership skills; tactfulness and flexibility in working with diverse population groups.
• Sound judgment based on the ability to analyze problems and develop practical and effective solutions to a variety of problems.
• Detail-oriented and efficient. Must be motivated to learn and flexible to change. Demonstrated creative and strategic-thinking qualities a plus.
• Ability to work independently, get projects done by enlisting the cooperation of others, and manage details. Proven ability to supervise and motivate others and to work effectively with a team.
• Experience in event management applications and database reporting tools.
• Must be available to work evenings and weekends as needed to support event execution. Occasional extended workdays may be required during event preparation and delivery.
• Experience in an academic or non-profit environment preferred.

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