Ombuds I

The University Ombuds Office is seeking to hire an Ombuds I position to join its Cambridge team. This is a benefits eligible term position through June 2028 with the possibility of extension.   Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: Dispute Resolution Consultation/Referral • Assist visitors in identifying and considering their concerns, goals and potential options for next steps. Assist with clarification of university policies and procedures as needed. • Conduct informal fact-finding to promote a better understanding of the issues, as appropriate. • Provide conflict coaching, informal mediation, group facilitation, shuttle diplomacy. • Consult with faculty and/or managers to develop general cooperative strategies for complaint resolution. Provide referrals to other resources as needed. • Work closely with key offices serving faculty, staff, students and/or trainees. Community Outreach and Education • Provide ongoing education and communication about the Ombuds Office and its role to all Harvard-connected members. • Conduct trainings currently offered through the Ombuds Office. Design and conduct new trainings as needed in the areas of negotiation and conflict resolution skills, authorship best practices and other related topics. Policy Analysis • Serve as a campus resource for those formulating or modifying policies and procedures • Maintain non-identifying visitor statistics and general statistics regarding trainings and presentations for the annual report and share statistics as requested and deemed appropriate by the office. Professionalism/Office Integrity • Takes all steps to ensure the integrity of the Harvard Ombuds Office is maintained at all times, including upholding its standards regarding confidentiality, impartiality, independence, and informality; • Responds to all individuals in a timely way and treats all with respect and professionalism; • Contributes to an environment that fosters emotional and physical safety for all visitors and office staff; • Works collaboratively and effectively with the Ombuds team in all aspects of work; • Coordinates all aspects of work including some scheduling of visitors, organizing of training materials, and other administrative tasks as needed Basic Qualifications  a candidate must meet to be considered for this role. • Bachelor's degree required. • Minimum five years demonstrated experience in ombudsing, conflict resolution, mediation and/or negotiation or related field. • Demonstrated experience in designing (including relevant computer skills) and conducting trainings Additional Qualifications and Skills: Advanced degree in a related field preferred. Previous Ombuds experience and prior experience in an academic/higher education environment is strongly preferred, as is basic mediation training (minimum of 30 hours) and/or completion of IOA Foundations of Organizational Ombudsman Practice course. Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills including the ability to work well with individuals at all institutional levels, an ability to quickly develop a rapport with others and experience working with subtle and/or complex institutional political dynamics. Excellent problem-solving skills. Demonstrated experience handling highly confidential matters with discretion and maintaining a professional demeanor at all times. Works well both independently and as part of a team. • Application process: Candidates are required to attach a cover letter with their application. For candidates with no direct experience as an ombuds, please also include details about making this transition. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. • Appointment End Date: 06/30/2028. This is a term position with a possibility of extension. • Standard Hou