Vice President, Community & Membership
Harvard Cooperative Society
Established in 1882, The COOP is not only the oldest and largest bookstore in the country. It is deeply rooted in the tradition and the fabric of the Harvard and MIT communities with a long history of supporting student groups and initiatives. The Coop, as a cooperative, is owned by its members, yet open to all. All members of the Harvard & MIT communities are eligible to join and enjoy a 10% member discount.
The COOP of the future will build on its storied history and will continue to evolve, enhancing the value we provide and reimagining what it means to be a member. The vision is dedicated to curating experiences that captivate and unite — a new model of modern retail and community engagement, leveraging innovative collaborations, products, and spaces, all designed to spark new ideas, forge meaningful connections, and strengthen our community.
Join the Harvard/MIT Coop Team in Shaping a New Future!
Be a part of a team that is not just thinking about the future, but actively shaping it. The Harvard/MIT Coop is looking to build a forward-thinking, dynamic, innovation-minded team to join in redefining the future of the organization. Here, you will have a unique opportunity to effect change and make a significant impact on the Harvard and MIT communities and beyond.
At the Harvard/MIT Coop, we are committed to fostering an inspiring environment that engages and enhances the experience of students, faculty, alumni, and those with affinity who visit from near and far. As we look to ensure future relevance, we aim to innovate and evolve, embrace new ideas and technologies, transform spaces and interactions, while preserving the best of rich traditions and values that have defined us for 150+ years. Together, we will create a Coop that is a center of innovation, engagement, and excellence, serving today’s and future generations of the Harvard and MIT communities.
After nearly 30 years of leading the COOP, Jerry Murphy, the current President and CEO, is retiring. Jodi Goldstein (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodi-goldstein-3529373/) will be taking over as CEO full-time effective September 2024.
Under Jodi’s leadership, a new executive team will be formed to reimagine the future of the COOP. Building on its storied history, the vision is to create a new model of modern retail and community engagement. This includes leveraging innovative collaborations, products, and spaces designed to spark new ideas, forge meaningful connections, and strengthen our community.
Position Overview
Position Title: Vice President, Community & Membership
Location: Cambridge, MA
Reports To: Chief Marketing Officer (CMO)
The Harvard Cooperative Society (The Coop) is seeking a strategic and experienced Vice President, Community & Membership to lead the design and administration of the Coop’s membership program. This executive role will focus on building a comprehensive community program aimed at increasing member engagement and enhancing the value provided to Coop members. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in creating and managing successful membership communities and a passion for fostering community and member satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities
1. Strategic Leadership
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Develop and implement a strategic vision for the Coop’s membership program and community engagement.
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Lead the design of a comprehensive membership program that aligns with the Coop’s mission and long-term goals.
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Collaborate with senior leadership to integrate the program into the overall strategic plan for The Coop.
2. Program Design and Development
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Oversee the creation of program features, benefits, and rewards that drive member engagement and loyalty.
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Create an foster an exciting membership experience both physically and digitally. Ensure seamless program implementation and integration across all platforms.
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Innovate and enhance the membership program to meet the evolving needs and preferences of the Coop community.
3. Membership Engagement and Value
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Develop and execute strategies to increase member participation and engagement with the program.
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Foster a culture of continuous improvement, regularly assessing and enhancing the program.
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Work with the CMO to create targeted marketing campaigns and communications to promote the membership program and its benefits.
4. Data Analysis and Reporting
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Monitor and analyze program performance metrics, including member enrollment, participation rates, and redemption activity.
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Utilize data insights to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement.
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Prepare and present regular reports and presentations for the executive team and board of directors on program performance and impact.
5. Partnership Management
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Identify and establish strategic partnerships with vendors, businesses, and service providers to offer valuable rewards and benefits to members.
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Negotiate and manage high-level contracts with partners to ensure mutually beneficial relationships.
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Ensure high-quality and consistent member experiences with all program partners.
6. Member Communication and Support
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Serve as the executive point of contact for member inquiries and issues related to the membership program.
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Develop and maintain effective communication channels to keep members informed about program updates, benefits, and special offers.
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Address member feedback and concerns promptly and effectively to ensure a positive member experience.
7. Innovation and Improvement
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Stay informed about industry trends, best practices, and emerging technologies in membership and loyalty/rewards programs.
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Implement innovative features and enhancements to keep the Coop’s program competitive and attractive.
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Solicit feedback from members and stakeholders to continuously improve the program.
Qualifications:
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Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field; MBA or equivalent advanced degree preferred.
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10+ years of experience in designing and managing membership programs, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
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Proven track record of increasing member engagement and satisfaction through effective membership program management and relationship building.
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Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and make data-driven decisions.
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Excellent strategic planning, project management, and organizational skills.
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Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.
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Ability to work collaboratively in a dynamic, nimble, and entrepreneurial organization. A willingness and ability to test and learn and adjust strategies and tactics as needed.
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Proficiency in using CRM systems, marketing automation tools, and data analytics software.
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Creative thinking and problem-solving abilities.
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Passion for community building and member engagement.
Benefits:
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Competitive salary and benefits package.
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Opportunities for professional development and growth.
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A collaborative and supportive work environment.
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The chance to make a meaningful impact within the Harvard and MIT communities.
Contact Us to learn more about this opportunity.
