Strategic Partnerships Architect — AI Industry & Alumni

Vanderbilt University; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanderbilt University’s VALIANT seeks an Assistant Director of Strategic Partnerships to architect external relationships with industry, academia and alumni. You will translate connections into durable support, shape engagement strategy, and expand VALIANT's influence and reputation.

Working with the Director, Program Manager and steering committee, you will lead the Industry Affiliates Program and AI Alumni Network, coordinating across CTTC, DAR and SPA to scale partnerships.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required.
• At least three years of professional experience in relationship management or partnerships.
• Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with external stakeholders.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for outreach materials.
• Experience coordinating with internal offices on administrative processes.

Responsibilities

• Direct and scale VALIANT's external-facing programs and partnerships.
• Represent VALIANT at conferences and industry events.
• Lead engagement with Industry Affiliates Program and AI Alumni Network.
• Coordinate MOUs and agreements with academic institutions.
• Organize tours and interactions between visitors and VALIANT staff.
• Support events like AI Summer School and Discover AI.

Skills

Relationship management

Business development

Partnerships

Program management

Outreach

Communication

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Tools

Website content management

Contract coordination

Job description

Vanderbilt University’s VALIANT seeks an Assistant Director of Strategic Partnerships to architect external relationships with industry, academia and alumni. You will translate connections into durable support, shape engagement strategy, and expand VALIANT's influence and reputation.

Working with the Director, Program Manager and steering committee, you will lead the Industry Affiliates Program and AI Alumni Network, coordinating across CTTC, DAR and SPA to scale partnerships.