The Harvard University Ombuds Office - located in Cambridge and Boston - provides independent dispute resolution services to Harvard faculty, staff, students, trainees and appointees at the affiliated institutions whose concerns are impacting their work or studies. The Ombuds Office provides visitors with a highly confidential, impartial and informal forum in which to clarify their concerns, identify their goals and consider all of their options in managing or resolving their concerns. Options can range from simply talking about problems to filing a formal complaint. The Ombuds Office provides coaching in written and verbal communications, one-on-one and group meeting facilitation, shuttle diplomacy, information about policies/procedures and resources, upward feedback to leadership about systemic issues and training. Any issue may be brought to the Ombuds Office.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
Dispute Resolution Consultation/Referral
- Assist visitors in identifying and considering their concerns, goals and potential options for next steps.
- Assist with clarification of university policies and procedures as needed.
- Conduct informal fact-finding to promote a better understanding of the issues, as appropriate.
- Provide conflict coaching, informal mediation, group facilitation, shuttle diplomacy.
- Consult with faculty and/or managers to develop general cooperative strategies for complaint resolution.
- Provide referrals to other resources as needed.
- Work closely with key offices serving faculty, staff, students and/or trainees.
Community Outreach and Education
- Provide ongoing education and communication about the Ombuds Office and its role to all Harvard-connected members.
- Conduct trainings currently offered through the Ombuds Office.
- Design and conduct new trainings as needed in the areas of negotiation and conflict resolution skills, authorship best practices and other related topics.
Policy Analysis
- Serve as a campus resource for those formulating or modifying policies and procedures.
- Maintain non-identifying visitor statistics and general statistics regarding trainings and presentations for the annual report and share statistics as requested and deemed appropriate by the office.
Professionalism/Office Integrity
- Take all steps to ensure the integrity of the Ombuds Office is maintained at all times, including upholding its standards regarding confidentiality, impartiality, independence, and informality.
- Respond to all individuals in a timely way and treat all with respect and professionalism.
- Contribute to an environment that fosters emotional and physical safety for all visitors and office staff.
- Work collaboratively and effectively with the Harvard Ombuds team in all aspects of work.
- Work collaboratively and effectively with the Program Administrator in all aspects of work including regarding the scheduling of visitors, organizing of training materials, general personnel administration and other tasks as needed.
As part of your application, we recommend including a cover letter that will help us better understand your qualifications and background. This can provide valuable insight into your experience and interest in the role.