Executive Director of Programs and Events

The Executive Director of Programs and Events provides senior leadership for the planning, execution, and assessment of alumni engagement and donor events that advance the institution’s mission and strategic priorities. Reporting to AVP for Advancement Communications, Events, and Donor Relations, this role oversees high-impact programs and convenings that support efforts to inform and inspire a variety of audiences and through highlighting faculty, students, alumni, volunteers, and key leaders. The Executive Director ensures that all programs and events reflect academic excellence, inclusivity, and institutional values. 

Job-Specific Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Institutional Alignment 

• Develop and implement a comprehensive strategy for alumni and donor programs and events aligned with institutional goals.

• Serve as a strategic advisor to senior leadership on programmatic and event-based initiatives.

• Ensure programs and events support alumni engagement, volunteer education, leadership committee functions, and top donor cultivation and recognition. 

Program development and execution 

• Leads the development of programs and determines content delivery for events and other audiences in partnership with the Harvard Alumni Association, the Faculty of Arts and Sciences, and the University Development Office. 

• Collaborate with faculty, academic departments, and academic leadership to design and deliver high-quality programming.

• Establish assessment frameworks to measure program effectiveness, engagement outcomes, and institutional impact.

Events Logistics 

• Oversee planning and execution of major institutional events such as reunions, committee gatherings, academic convenings, alumni events, donor events, and public-facing programs. 

• Ensure events meet institutional standards for accessibility, inclusivity, risk and financial management, and brand representation. 

• Lead post-event evaluations and continuous improvement efforts. 

• Develop and manage program and event budgets, ensuring responsible stewardship of institutional resources. 

• Oversee contracts, vendor relationships, space utilization, and compliance with university policies. 

Leadership Travel 

• Facilitate the development of annual plans for the deployment of academic deans, key faculty and administrative leaders in fundraising activities, including their development travel for individual prospect visits and involvement in regional events. 

• Oversee a team and that executes on these annual travel plans for key FAS leaders and ensures plans are coordinated with those of the University President and Provost. 

Team Leadership & Campus Collaboration 

• Lead and mentor staff, fostering collaboration and professional development. 

• Build strong cross-campus partnerships with academic affairs, stewardship, communications, and facilities. 

• Create clear processes and governance structures for program and event planning. 

External Relations & Representation 

• Cultivate relationships with external partners, speakers, sponsors, and peer institutions. 

• Represent the institution at internal and external events as needed.