Program Administrator, Engagements, Executive Education

Program Administrator, Engagements

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Harvard Business School Executive Education brings together senior executives from the world's most influential organizations, preparing them to reach the next level for their organizations and for themselves. Working closely with HBS's world-class faculty, we design and deliver programs for individuals and for organizations, welcoming over 12,000 participants annually from over 130 countries. Programs range from a few days to multiple weeks. Most programs are delivered on the HBS campus, where participants live, learn, and dine together in dedicated Executive Education residences and facilities. Our programming includes in-person, virtual, and blended (combining both in-person and virtual learning) options. The Executive Education department consists of open enrollment, global, and custom program portfolio management; guest services; marketing; corporate sales; program operations; technology services; human resources; enrollment and admissions; and finance.

Job Summary

The Program Administrator, Engagements plays a critical role in the planning and delivery of a dynamic and evolving portfolio of programs, including custom client engagements, immersive experiences, conferences, and cascading programs. This role is responsible for administering complex logistics, ensuring operational excellence, and contributing to the creation of high-quality participant and client experiences. Reporting to a Program Manager, and working as part of the engagement team, the Program Administrator partners with faculty, clients, and cross-functional colleagues to ensure seamless delivery across all phases of the program lifecycle. In addition to core planning and delivery responsibilities, the Program Administrator may manage additional responsibilities as needed, such as overseeing aspects of program operations, supporting and guiding staff, or representing the delivery team with stakeholders. Success in this role requires strong organizational skills, adaptability, and the ability to balance detail-oriented execution with broader team goals in a fast-paced, evolving environment.

HBS Executive Education anticipates making three hires for this same position. Interviewing for this opportunity means candidates are interviewing for one of these three openings, and more information will be shared during the interview process.

Job Description

• Build trust and collaboration by being present on-site and engaging directly with colleagues and various constituents.
• Manage detailed planning and execution of program logistics for custom client engagements, immersive experiences, conferences, workshops, cascading programs, and other Executive Education programs.
• Partner with faculty to confirm session details, prepare program materials, and ensure classroom needs are met.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for participants and faculty during all phases of the program, ensuring a seamless and high-quality experience.
• Collaborate with internal service providers (operations, IT, media services, facilities, housing, etc.) to ensure all program requirements are coordinated.
• Work directly with the catering team to plan and oversee meals, receptions, and special events, ensuring high-quality service and alignment with program needs.
• Coordinate with event management vendors, as needed, to plan and deliver program-related events and experiences.
• Create and maintain program schedules, run-of-show documents, and task trackers to keep all elements of delivery aligned.
• Oversee and implement special events, experiential learning activities, and participant-facing experiences as part of program delivery.
• Support budget tracking and expense management, including vendor engagement, contracts, and payments.
• Participate in live program delivery (in person or virtual), addressing real-time needs and troubleshooting issues as they arise.
• Contribute to process improvements by developing tools, templates, and documentation to strengthen future delivery.
• Share observations and insights from program execution with managers and directors to inform planning and continuous improvement.
• Provide oversight and guidance to Program Coordinators and temporary staff as needed, and assume elevated responsibilities such as leading program components or representing the delivery team with stakeholders.
• Support department-wide initiatives and contribute to "all hands" program delivery efforts across the portfolio.
• This role is responsible for other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications :

Additional Qualifications :

Additional Information

This position is approved for a 2-year term (with possibility of renewal / extension) which begins on the hire's first day of employment. This 2-year term limit does not apply to current Harvard employees.

This is a hybrid position which we consider to be a combination of onsite and remote work at our Boston, MA based campus. Please note that for the first 90 days of employment, you will be expected to be onsite 5 days / week. This role is required to be onsite for the entire duration of a program when in-session. When not in session, Executive Education expects Program Delivery staff to be onsite a minimum of 2 days per week and departments to provide onsite coverage Monday Friday. Specific hours and days onsite will be determined by business needs and are subject to change with appropriate advanced notice.

Work Format Details

This is a position that is based at a Harvard campus location with some remote work options available. Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. All remote work must be performed within one of the Harvard Registered Payroll States, which currently includes Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington, and California (CA for exempt positions only). Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 055. Please visit the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to :

Learn more about these and additional benefits on the Benefits & Wellbeing Page.

EEO / Non-Discrimination