Director of Curatorial Affairs (Assistant Dean)

The Graduate School of Design is seeking an individual who will assume a curatorial and management role in developing and overseeing the functions of Publications, Exhibitions, Events, Digital Media and Communications from both an intellectual and administrative perspective.  The Director will formulate creative strategies for internal and external communications to effectively represent the School’s vision and agenda to its various constituencies.

• Reports to the Executive Dean, works closely with the Dean and is a member of the GSD’s senior management team.
• Implements, promotes, and stewards the School’s vision through the web/internet, other media, exhibitions, events, publications and specific PR strategies to ensure that the GSD is recognized by internal and external audiences as a leader in its varied disciplines.
• Develops and shapes communications; organizes and defines messages.
• Identifies opportunities to promote the School’s mission, programs and initiatives.
• Works closely with the Associate Dean for Development and Alumni Relations to develop a communications strategy for campaign, donors and alumni
• Writes and drafts reports and documents for the Dean and Executive Dean; writes press releases, talking points and other briefing materials.
• Supervises a staff of 6 within an overall office of 9. Hires with and works with consultants. Serves as a liaison to others with communications-related functions at the University. Serves as School PIO (Public Information Officer) and on the Local Emergency Management Team.
• Working with the Dean and faculty, facilitates communications related to upcoming lectures, symposia, faculty and student research initiative, and other activities.
• Manages contact with the press.
• Collaborates with Dean on speeches and special presentations.

Requirements:

The ideal candidate will possess creative vision, leadership experience, sophisticated communications skills, ability to articulate an appreciation of the arts and design and be results oriented. Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s degree preferred. 10+ years’ directly related communications or related experience in a design/arts environment required. Strong understanding of the potential of digital communications. Requires ability to think strategically; provide leadership; be proactive and take initiative; show judgment; build relationships within the School and University; forge relationships with external constituents; meet deadlines; and manage multiple priorities and associated staff. Strong interpersonal skills necessary.

The Harvard University Graduate School of Design is dedicated to the education and development of design professionals in architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning, and urban design. With a commitment to design excellence that demands the skillful manipulation of form and technology and draws inspiration from a broad range of social, environmental, and cultural issues, the Graduate School of Design provides leadership for shaping the built environment of the 21st century. For more information about Harvard GSD see: www.gsd.harvard.edu

Interested candidates should upload a cover letter and resume in the Harvard Employment website at http://hr.harvard.edu and search on requisition #38174BR.

Harvard University Graduate School of Design
48 Quincy Street
Gund Hall
Cambridge, MA 02138
gsd.harvard.edu