IT RC Software/Data Prof V

Harvard University - Cambridge, MA

Full-time - Senior

Remote - Cambridge, MA

Educational Services

About the position

The Executive Director of the Center for Geographic Analysis (CGA) at Harvard University is a pivotal role that oversees the operations of the CGA, which supports research and teaching across various disciplines related to geospatial technology and methods. Established in 2006, the CGA combines consultation services, technical training, platform development, and sponsored research to facilitate a diverse range of research projects involving geospatial analysis. The Executive Director will work under the general guidance of the Chair of the Faculty Advisory Group and will be responsible for setting strategic goals and long-term direction for the CGA, ensuring its financial sustainability, and cultivating relationships with both internal and external stakeholders, including academic institutions and industry partners. In this role, the Executive Director will direct CGA service programs, which include managing research consultations, virtual helpdesk services, and operational databases. They will also be tasked with monitoring geospatial technology trends and guiding staff to stay updated on current developments. The position involves organizing educational programs, such as annual symposiums and monthly seminar series, to enhance the learning experience related to geospatial technology. Additionally, the Executive Director will manage geospatial technology resources, evaluate and implement university-wide site licenses for geospatial software, and negotiate educational discounts. They will oversee staff management, including determining staffing needs and evaluating performance, while also managing the CGA's budget and external research grants. This role requires a commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and belonging, fostering a culture where all individuals can thrive and contribute to Harvard's mission.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic goals and set long-term direction for the CGA with advice from the faculty advisory group chair and IQSS management team.
• Develop solutions for CGA's financial sustainability, seeking funding from internal and external sources including provost subvention and research grants.
• Cultivate and maintain Harvard's relations with the GIScience scholarly field and the geospatial industry.
• Direct CGA operations including research consultations, virtual helpdesk, and operational databases.
• Monitor geospatial technology trends and guide CGA staff to remain up to date on current developments.
• Organize annual symposiums and monthly academic seminar series related to geospatial technology.
• Evaluate and implement university-wide site licenses for geospatial software and data.
• Manage CGA budgeting and appointments with support from the IQSS admin team.
• Develop grant proposals in collaboration with faculty and researchers across Harvard and in external institutions.
• Manage sponsored research accounts and coordinate CGA activities to fulfill grant obligations.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in geographic information science or a related field strongly preferred.
• 10 years' progressing experience in geographic information science research and/or geospatial technology development strongly preferred.
• Thorough understanding of the life cycle of applying geographic analysis in research or operational settings.
• Experience in staff and budget management, customer and vendor relationship management, and grant application management.
• Minimum of eleven years' post-secondary education or relevant work experience.
• Minimum of two years of mentoring or project management experience.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in strategic decision making in research service center operations.
• Familiarity with geospatial technology trends and developments.

Benefits

• Paid Time Off: 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year, 12 accrued sick days, 12.5 holidays, and up to 12 weeks of paid leave for new parents.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs.
• Child and elder/adult care resources including on-campus childcare centers and wellness programs.
• University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation.
• Tuition Assistance Program including reduced tuition through Harvard graduate schools.
• Professional Development programs and classes at little or no cost.
• Various commuter options including discounted parking and public transportation passes.
• Access to Harvard athletic and fitness facilities, libraries, and campus events.