Data Operations Specialist

The Data Operations Specialist contributes to the activities of the Research and Prospect Development/Lead Generation and Data Enhancement group while supporting all DAR staff by efficiently and accurately performing data maintenance and cleaning for entry into a CRM database. This position plays a key role in identifying and addressing data discrepancies to support continuous improvement.

About the Work Unit: 

The Department of Development and Alumni Relations (DAR) assists Vanderbilt University in securing the resources, both human and financial, that are required to achieve its mission and goals. The Department is responsible for the identification, cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of individuals and organizations whose charitable objectives are consistent with those of Vanderbilt University’s teaching and research program. 

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

• Assess new data enhancement requests, and work with team managers to determine the scope and process.

• Follow established guidelines and move requests forward independently to meet internal milestones.

• Perform monthly, quarterly, and annual seasonal data maintenance tasks, including report manipulation and case assignment to appropriate parties.

• Understand the sources of data integrated into CRM and recommend how best to collect, organize, use, and optimize this data.

• Clean and prepare data for bulk upload from various sources including internal partners and external vendors.

• Exercise sound judgment in data entry decisions and effectively communicate the rationale behind choices.

• Ensure data is accurate and complete prior to input within the CRM, utilizing Excel manipulation and other reporting to identify discrepancies.

• Document data discrepancies and report results to key stakeholders, focusing on strategies for continuous improvement and efficiencies.

• Fulfill CRM data entry requests as needed by other work units.

Supervisory Relationships:

This position does not have supervisory responsibility; this position reports administratively and functionally to the Assistant Director of Data Enhancement.

Work Environment:

• This is a hybrid role based in Nashville – in the office approximately 1 day per week depending on business needs. 

Education and Certifications:

• Bachelor’s degree, or the equivalent, is required. 

Experience and Skills:

• 2 years of relevant experience in data management and enhancement projects.
• Experience working in a relational database; Experience with Salesforce is preferred.
• Broad familiarity with data maintenance practices and researching biographical data.
• Experience in Microsoft Excel, including proficiency with basic formulas, conditional formatting, filtering/sorting, pivot tables, and VLOOKUP. 
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and create parameters for new projects with limited guidance.

• Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to meet deadlines while maintaining a high level of service and quality deliverables and adapting to changing priorities. 

• Meticulous attention to details and analytical skills to interpret a wide range of information and use findings to identify insights and form recommendations.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. 
• Dedicated to upholding data integrity, confidentiality, and ethical standards.

Key Characteristics of a Successful Team Member in this Work Unit:

• Values collaboration and colleagues throughout DAR, and across the University. 

• Focused on creative problem solving and places a high value on learning and improving.

• Communicates proactively, shares information, asks for advice, and considers it thoughtfully.

• Holds oneself accountable, takes responsibility for failures as well as successes, and recognizes that trust is required to hold a team together.