What's Happening?
Harvard University's Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is seeking a Manager, Digital Content to lead the development, management, and optimization of content across its digital platforms. Reporting to the Director of Marketing, this role combines strong
editorial judgment with expertise in digital content strategy, web management, user experience, accessibility, and analytics. The Manager will be responsible for developing and producing high-quality digital content, advising on content structure, navigation, and information architecture, and using data and digital best practices to continually improve content performance and user experience. The position involves close collaboration with FAS Communications and Marketing, IT, external partners, and content contributors, and will contribute to the long-term evolution of FAS digital platforms and content strategy. This is a hybrid role based in Cambridge, MA, requiring a minimum of three days per week on campus.
Why It's Important?
This role is crucial for Harvard University's FAS as it aims to maintain and enhance its global academic reputation and engage effectively with its diverse stakeholders, including students, faculty, alumni, and the public. In an increasingly digital world, a compelling and accessible online presence is vital for communicating institutional priorities, showcasing academic excellence, and attracting top talent. The Manager, Digital Content will ensure that FAS digital properties are engaging, intuitive, and aligned with institutional goals, directly impacting the university's ability to disseminate knowledge, foster community, and support its mission. The emphasis on accessibility and user-centered design also highlights a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that digital content is usable by all audiences, which is a critical aspect of modern higher education.
What's Next?
The Manager, Digital Content will immediately focus on developing and implementing a comprehensive content plan aligned with FAS institutional priorities, particularly those related to the Dean's initiatives. This will involve adapting and repurposing content across various channels and formats to maximize engagement and accessibility. The role will also entail managing digital content production within the CMS, ensuring compliance with editorial, technical, brand, and accessibility standards. Ongoing responsibilities will include monitoring and enhancing the effectiveness of FAS digital properties through analytics, user-centered design, and best practices. The Manager will also serve as a liaison between various departments and external vendors, contributing to the strategic evolution of Harvard's digital platforms and content strategy.
Beyond the Headlines
The creation of this position at Harvard University reflects a broader trend in higher education towards professionalizing digital communications and content strategy. Universities are increasingly recognizing the strategic importance of their online presence not just for marketing and recruitment, but also for academic dissemination, community building, and institutional branding. This role underscores the complex interplay between technology, content, and user experience in shaping an institution's digital identity. It also highlights the ethical considerations of digital accessibility, ensuring that educational content is available to individuals with diverse needs. The hybrid work model further illustrates the evolving nature of professional roles within academic institutions, balancing on-campus collaboration with remote work flexibility.
