Senior Executive Assistant

Harvard University - Boston, MA

Full-time - Mid Level

Hybrid - Boston, MA

Educational Services

About the position

The Senior Executive Assistant (EA) at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health plays a crucial role in supporting the dean of the faculty and the Dean's Office. This position is responsible for managing the dean's calendar, communications, and travel arrangements while ensuring smooth day-to-day operations. The EA will establish new workflows, anticipate the needs of the dean, and contribute to the mission of improving public health. The role requires a collaborative, self-directed individual with strong problem-solving skills and a commitment to fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Responsibilities

• Act as the administrative point of contact for the dean, managing calls and emails, and creating a welcoming environment.
• Proactively handle the dean's calendar, resolving scheduling conflicts and communicating updates to stakeholders.
• Arrange domestic and international travel, including flights, hotels, and itineraries.
• Draft, edit, and proof correspondence while maintaining archival records.
• Reconcile the dean's expenses and corporate card transactions.
• Anticipate the needs of the dean and act strategically in alignment with the Dean's Office staff.
• Organize and implement administrative systems to promote efficiency and maximize technology use.
• Perform other duties as required based on shifting demands.

Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience is required.
• 5+ years of experience supporting senior/executive level leaders or related experience is required.
• Experience with calendar management of senior/executive leaders is required.

Nice-to-haves

• Bachelor's degree strongly preferred.
• 10+ years of progressively responsible administrative experience strongly preferred.
• Experience in an academic environment is preferred.
• Familiarity with systems, policies, and procedures is preferred.
• Advanced fluency with Microsoft Office Suite and collaboration programs is required.
• Proven task management and organizational skills are preferred.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills are preferred.
• Aptitude for preemptive, creative problem solving is preferred.
• Proven customer service skills with an empathic mindset are preferred.

Benefits

• 3-4 weeks of accrued vacation time per year, 12 accrued sick days, 12.5 holidays, and 3 personal days.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits, disability and life insurance programs.
• Child and elder/adult care resources, Employee Assistance Program, and wellness programs.
• University-funded retirement plan with contributions from 5% to 15% of eligible compensation.
• Tuition Assistance Program and Tuition Reimbursement for eligible courses.
• Professional Development programs and classes at little or no cost.
• Various commuter options including discounted parking and public transportation passes.