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Harvard University

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Good times and bad times - Assistant Director Harvard University Employee Review

3.0
Jan 1, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

colleagues generally care about their work and mission of the school; activity benefits are great (tuition, events, etc.); health, retirement benefits are so-so. Base pay is higher than other higher ed institutions, but raises are not guaranteed.

Cons

How much you'll enjoy your work and being at work is completely dependent on your local leadership. Major politics at play, both small scale and large. Usually no opportunity for moving up, never hear about anyone being promoted. You have to apply for jobs outside your team.

Explore other reviews about Harvard University

5.0
Jul 13, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Light work if you have the right team

Cons

Low pay for amount of work

2.0
Jun 30, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business Outlook

Pros

Great Union and benefits for non-profits/higher ed. Wonderful colleagues outside of leadership!

Cons

GSD Development and Alumni Relations (under current leadership) is an incredibly toxic work environment. I didn't realize the intensity of the toll it took on my until after leaving, and I am not one to leave a negative review, but as they are hiring for several positions currently, I wish to share words of caution with applicants. Cons: - Absolutely not a safe space for anyone who is Black, brown, trans, queer, working-class, or disabled - 100% top-down direction. No room for personal exploration, initiative, or creativity. - Minimal guidance from leadership - Frequent pivots, even in the late stages of projects - Petty, immature talking behind your back by leadership - No upward mobility unless the Associate Dean or Dean like you - Deeply disingenuous comments, reflections, and feedback from leadership - Complete lack of transparency on direction, goals, etc. - Small mistakes are made cornerstones of performance evaluations, while leadership routinely missteps. Leadership never takes accountability. - Top-down policy decisions, completely lacking detail, thought, and care outside of legal ramifications - Ever-changing in-office requirements

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