Program Manager, Wolk Israel Graduate Fellowship

Program Manager, Wolk Israel Graduate Fellowship

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Company Description By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world‑changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Kennedy School? The John

F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University is one of 12 graduate and professional schools at the university. Harvard Kennedy School’s mission is to improve public policy and leadership so people can live in societies that are more safe, free, just, and sustainably prosperous. By combining cutting‑edge research, the teaching of outstanding students, and direct interaction with practitioners, we have an impact on solving public problems that no other institution can match.

When you work at Harvard Kennedy School, you make a difference.

Job Description The Center for Public Leadership (CPL) seeks a part‑time Program Manager to support the Wolk Israel Graduate Fellowship, a highly selective leadership development program for emerging Israeli leaders pursuing graduate study at Harvard Kennedy School.

Co‑Curricular Planning, Implementation & Support

• Manage all programmatic components of the Wolk Fellowship
• Implement and coordinate co‑curricular sessions tailored to the fellowship’s aims and context
• Support students in developing individualized learning plans and leadership development goals
• Facilitate cohort sessions and reflective discussions during the academic year
• Support fellows in planning and leading an annual field experience to a U.S. city focused on a policy issue of interest within the context of their cohort
• Collect feedback, track progress, and propose program improvements
• Foster community‑building among fellows and identify opportunities for connection with the broader CPL community
• Manage operational tasks and fellowship‑specific budget lines in alignment with CPL and Harvard policies

Recruitment & Selection

• Manage interview logistics and applicant communication
• Serve as the internal point of contact for prospective HKS students interested in the Wolk Fellowship
• Collaborate with HKS Admissions to support targeted outreach efforts

Alumni & Donor Engagement

• Support preparation of donor stewardship materials and briefing documents
• Partner with CPL’s Engagement team to maintain relationships with Wolk alumni
• Facilitate opportunities for alumni to serve as mentors, guest speakers, or informal support to current fellows

Professional Culture

• Contribute to a collaborative, inclusive, and mission‑driven team culture within CPL
• Engage in reflective practice, participate in professional development, and seek feedback to strengthen program delivery
• Communicate clearly, professionally, and proactively with staff, faculty, students, and partners
• Uphold all Harvard and CPL administrative policies and standards

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
• Minimum 5 years of related experience in program or project management

Additional Qualifications and Skills

• Master’s degree preferred
• Hebrew proficiency preferred
• Experience coaching or mentoring students or early‑career professionals
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Strong organizational abilities and capacity to manage multiple tasks with competing priorities
• Commitment to working with international and culturally diverse communities
• Experience managing budgets and working within institutional or nonprofit environments

Additional Information

• Appointment End Date:
  This position is a fully benefits eligible term appointment ending one year from date of hire, with the possibility of renewal.
• Standard Hours/
  
  Schedule:
  
  17.5 hours per week
• Visa Sponsorship Information:
  Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
• Pre‑Employment Screening:
  Identity, Education
• Requires the ability to work a flexible schedule with regular evening hours, occasional weekends, and some travel
• The position is required to…