Director Climate Action Accelerator

Overview

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.
If you want to know about the requirements for this role, read on for all the relevant information.

About the Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability The Salata Institute for Climate and Sustainability is part of Harvard's Central Administration. Launched in 2022, the Institute aims to develop pathbreaking approaches to the climate crisis by harnessing the intellectual power of Harvard, leveraging expertise across the University, catalyzing new areas of research, and generating real world solutions in conjunction with policy makers and decision-makers around the world. Working across Harvard’s 12 schools, the Institute supports interdisciplinary research, engages in dialogue on climate solutions, and develops pathways for student education and participation in climate and sustainability initiatives.

Job Description

The Climate Action Accelerator serves as a resource and partner to stakeholders wrestling with climate questions, building consensus for climate solutions grounded in Harvard’s research and expertise. The Director will translate Harvard’s intellectual resources into tangible solutions to address the climate crisis, identify opportunities for research to impact climate challenges, and help build consensus among stakeholders. The Accelerator is nonpartisan, agile, and trusted to facilitate dialogue on high-stakes climate topics.

The incumbent will have a deep understanding of climate change issues and a commitment to progress on climate change, with the ability to innovate, think strategically and conceptually, and collaborate across disciplines to influence and persuade others. The Director will leverage the University’s research strengths and convening power to engage stakeholders in the private, nonprofit, and government sectors to develop a platform for leadership in climate action.

The Director reports to the Salata Institute’s Executive Director and coordinates with the Institute’s Director on vision and strategy. The Director leads a team that works with faculty, translates research findings, and deploys Harvard’s convening power for impact. The Director collaborates with the Chair and the Climate Action Accelerator Steering Committee for strategic guidance. The role contributes to developing efficient processes and fostering a mission-driven culture of collaboration, creativity, and respect.

It is essential that the person in this position demonstrate a strong work ethic, collaboration, adaptability, professionalism, and enthusiasm for the endeavor.

Responsibilities

• Ensure that the Climate Action Accelerator is a trusted source for evidence-based solutions to climate change.
• Collaborate with Harvard faculty to translate research into real-world action.
• Conduct outreach to stakeholders to understand needs and positions around climate issues and build consensus for action.
• Work with communications and events teams to convene stakeholders and facilitate productive dialogues.
• Lead the programming of the annual Harvard Climate Symposium, a high-visibility event attracting decision-makers, faculty, students, and climate practitioners.
• Build and supervise a strong and diverse team.
• Develop performance measures for the Accelerator and report on its impact.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

• An advanced degree required.
• A minimum of ten years of experience working on climate change issues, in positions of increasing responsibility.

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• A record of meaningful accomplishment in addressing the climate crisis.
• Experience conducting outreach to diverse stakeholders with tangible results.
• Robust network of contacts in government, business, nonprofits, and communities affected by climate change.
• Collaborative, organized with excellent follow-through, sound judgment and discretion.
• Adaptable, able to work with independence, and capable of leading meetings with senior faculty and staff.
• Exceptional writing, verbal, and interpersonal skills; ability to build relationships in a complex, collaborative environment.
• Ability to innovate, think strategically and conceptually, listen carefully, and influence others.

Additional Information

• Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education
• Special notes: Please provide a cover letter with your application. The position is based on campus with a hybrid work option.

Work Format Details

This position is based at a Harvard campus location with some remote work options. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Remote work must be performed within one of Harvard’s registered payroll states.

Salary and Benefits

This position is salary grade 060. Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, health insurance, retirement plans, wellbeing resources, family support, professional development, and commuter benefits. See the Benefits & Wellbeing Page for details.

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination and seeks talent from all parts of society and the world.

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