Client Relations Specialist

Client Relations Specialist

The Data Science Institute (DSI) at Columbia University is a world-leading research and education institute advancing the field of data science and artificial intelligence (AI.) Our mission is to harness the power of data science and AI to drive positive change in society. Through pioneering research and education, we develop cutting-edge solutions and prepare responsible innovators to tackle urgent challenges. By bringing together Columbia's diverse academic expertise with its advanced data science and AI capabilities, DSI leads interdisciplinary collaboration and cultivates high-impact partnerships across academia, industry, and the public sector. Guided by the principle of Data for Good, we translate data insights into real-world applications that enhance societal well-being and promote sustainable progress.

Reporting to the Chief of Strategic Alliances, the Client Relations Specialist is responsible for cultivating and maintaining proactive, productive relationships with industry partners, affiliates, and collaborators of the Data Science Institute at Columbia University. This role supports the growth and retention of strategic partnerships by connecting external stakeholders with relevant research, programming, faculty expertise, and engagement opportunities across the Institute and broader Columbia University.

Responsibilities

• Manages partnership renewals, engagement, and retention activities for the Industry Catalyst Network. Proactively maintains regular communication with partner organizations to identify opportunities for deeper collaboration and increased engagement with DSI initiatives, programs, and research activities.
• Researches and develops a strong understanding of the strategic, operational, and technological priorities facing partner organizations in order to align DSI resources and opportunities with partner needs. Provides regular updates and briefings to internal stakeholders and leadership.
• Proactively identifies and shares developments, opportunities, and initiatives of potential value to partners, including DSI programs, workshops, lectures, faculty research, publications, startup initiatives, and collaborative engagement opportunities.
• Maintains a working knowledge of DSI faculty, researchers, centers, labs, and affiliated programs in order to effectively connect partners with relevant expertise and opportunities for collaboration.
• Maintains accurate and comprehensive records of partner interactions, activities, communications, and engagement metrics within Hubspot in a timely manner.
• Coordinates onboarding and orientation activities for new partners, including communicating partnership benefits, points of contact, programming opportunities, and engagement pathways across DSI and Columbia University.
• Serves as a point of contact for partner organizations engaging with DSI around professional development opportunities, innovation initiatives, startup engagement, workforce development, and related activities.
• Builds and maintains effective working relationships across Columbia University departments, centers, and administrative units to support collaborative programming and maximize institutional engagement opportunities.
• Works closely with DSI communications, events, and program teams to support the planning and execution of partner-facing programs, convenings, workshops, and special events.
• Collaborates with DSI leadership, faculty, researchers, and administrative staff to ensure effective coordination and execution of partnership deliverables and engagement activities.
• Prepares regular reports and updates on partner engagement, outreach activities, and faculty collaborations.
• Represents DSI at internal and external meetings, conferences, networking events, and partner engagements, as appropriate.
• Coordinates appropriate follow-up, communications, and debriefs related to partner meetings, events, and engagement activities.
• Performs additional duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent.
• 3 years of experience in partnership management, client relations, business development, higher education engagement, membership development, or related professional experience.
• Demonstrated experience managing relationships with external stakeholders, partners, sponsors, or clients.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-based environment with faculty, researchers, administrators, students, corporate representatives, and external partners.
• Excellent interpersonal, relationship management, and customer service skills with a professional and diplomatic demeanor.
• Demonstrated sound judgment, discretion, and professionalism in handling confidential or sensitive matters.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including business writing, presentations, and stakeholder communications.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and deliver high-quality work in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational, project management, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Demonstrated initiative and ability to anticipate opportunities, challenges, and partner needs.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, Google Suite and related collaboration tools.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Flexibility to attend occasional evening and/or weekend events and meetings as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience using Hubspot or similar CRM platforms.
• Experience working in higher education, innovation ecosystems, or academic-industry partnership environments.
• Familiarity with Columbia University systems, processes, and research environments.
• Interest in or familiarity with data science, artificial intelligence, emerging technologies, or interdisciplinary research environments.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.