What's Happening?
Harvard University's Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is actively seeking a Director of Internal Communications. This role is crucial for developing and executing comprehensive employee communications that align with FAS priorities and strengthen connections
across the organization. The Director will serve as the primary voice for internal news, announcements, and leadership communications, overseeing various channels including email, digital platforms, multimedia, and live events. Key responsibilities include leading the editorial strategy and day-to-day management of 'The FAS Reporter,' a central employee communication vehicle, and managing emergency communications. The position also involves partnering with academic and administrative leaders to effectively reach faculty, researchers, and staff within Harvard's large and decentralized structure. The role requires a Bachelor's degree and a minimum of eight years of progressively responsible experience in communications or marketing, with strong writing and editing skills being essential.
Why It's Important?
This hiring initiative underscores Harvard University's commitment to fostering a well-informed and engaged internal community, which is vital for the smooth operation and strategic advancement of its Faculty of Arts and Sciences. Effective internal communication is critical for a large, complex institution like Harvard, ensuring that its diverse faculty, researchers, and staff are aligned with organizational goals and aware of important developments. The emphasis on a dedicated communications leader suggests a strategic effort to enhance transparency, collaboration, and overall institutional cohesion. This role will directly impact how information is disseminated, how crises are managed internally, and how the university's mission is communicated to its internal stakeholders, ultimately influencing the academic and operational effectiveness of one of the nation's leading educational institutions.
What's Next?
The search for a Director of Internal Communications is ongoing, with Harvard University actively reviewing applications. The successful candidate will be tasked with immediately implementing and refining internal communication strategies for the FAS. This will involve establishing content standards, publishing rhythms, and coordinating messaging across multiple offices and channels. The new Director will also be responsible for managing the development of public reports for FAS and serving as the internal communications lead for the FAS calendar solution and other employee-facing channels. The role is designed to ensure consistent and effective communication, which will be crucial for supporting the university's academic and administrative functions and fostering a connected community.
Beyond the Headlines
The creation and emphasis on this senior internal communications role at Harvard reflects a broader trend in large organizations, including academic institutions, recognizing the strategic importance of internal messaging. In an era of rapid information flow and diverse communication channels, managing internal narratives and ensuring consistent, clear communication is more critical than ever. This position highlights the understanding that an engaged and informed internal community is foundational to external success and reputation. It also points to the increasing complexity of managing information within large, decentralized entities, where effective communication can mitigate misunderstandings, foster a positive work environment, and support institutional resilience during times of change or crisis.
