Innovation Project Coordinator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About the Columbus Partnership

The Columbus Partnership brings together civic-minded business leaders in a unique collaborative effort to advance a shared vision to make Columbus the most prosperous region in the country. Through our work, we help create jobs and attract capital investment, expand access to opportunity and improve the economic competitiveness of the Columbus metropolitan area. Columbus Partnership member CEOs and the broader network of companies that invest in our work are committed to the future of the Columbus metro through high-impact civic and philanthropic engagement. Our professional and cross-functional team works together in a fast-paced, results-driven, in-person work environment. The work is also carried out through our One Columbus, Smart Columbus and Columbus Region brands, as well as other initiatives focused on ensuring the best possible future for our community.

The Role

The Innovation Project Coordinator is a member of the Columbus Partnership professional staff and is assigned to our innovation team. In this role, the focus is on keeping innovation initiatives moving forward. The position supports work across the innovation team by coordinating the people, projects and systems that bring these initiatives to life. Responsibilities include organizing meetings, tracking progress, managing data and supporting cross- functional collaboration, all of which play a key role in keeping complex efforts on track.

This opportunity is well suited for someone who enjoys working at the intersection of strategy and execution. The role involves collaboration with internal teams, partners and stakeholders while building experience across high-impact initiatives that support the organization’s work and community. Each day will be different, challenging and rewarding. This role is grant-funded through 2027. Funding for the role beyond 2027 is dependent upon securing additional funding streams.

Reports to

Senior Project Manager, Digital Access

Expected Outcomes

• Successful delivery of digital access initiative, with projects completed on time, within scope and aligned with organizational goals.
• Improved decision-making through accurate data management, well-maintained records, reporting and dashboards that generate actionable insights.
• Provide reliable coordination and administrative support that helps innovation initiatives and projects run smoothly and on schedule.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Coordinate day-to-day activities across the innovation team and digital access initiative to ensure alignment with strategic goals.
• Track project timelines, milestones and deliverables, identifying risks and supporting mitigation efforts.
• Lead or support special projects, pilots and cross-functional initiatives to ensure timely execution 1 of 3
• Support program meetings by scheduling, preparing agendas, capturing notes and tracking action items.
• Coordinate logistics for internal and external events, including vendor coordination, communications and materials preparation.
• Collect information, synthesize and prepare presentations and reports that support decision- making.
• Manage and maintain databases, CRM systems and stakeholder records, ensuring accuracy, integrity and consistency.
• Maintain organized filing systems, documentation and internal processes, including updating policies and procedures.
• Develop and maintain dashboards and reports to track KPIs, outcomes and program performance.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills and Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 0-2 years of relevant professional experience in a related field.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, PowerPoint and Word and/or Google Workspace.
• Experience with CRM or project management tools such as Salesforce, Monday.com or similar platforms, is a plus.
• Ability to coordinate complex schedules, meetings and logistics for individuals and large groups.
• Experience supporting projects involving data systems, digital tools or community-based
• initiatives, preferred.
• Experience creating dashboards, reports or data visualizations, preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate data into actionable insights.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to manage and maintain databases with a high level of accuracy and data integrity.
• Positive, collaborative attitude with a proactive, can-do mindset and interest in current events and the growth of the Columbus region.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines, priorities and projects in a fast-paced, team-oriented
• environment.
• Confidence to execute assignments while continuously seeking opportunities to improve
• processes and outcomes.
• Exceptional attention to detail.
• Strong written communication and proofreading skills.
• Ability to quickly learn new tools, technologies and systems.
• Exercises sound judgment, maintains professionalism and handles confidential information with discretion.

Workplace Environment

• The Columbus Partnership is an in-person work environment with this role based in Downtown Columbus.
• The workday starts no later than 9:00 a.m. and you must be available during standard business hours.
• Must be available to work occasional off-hours; events and meetings will involve some early mornings, evenings and weekends.

We Offer

• A front-row leadership seat impacting our community’s future.
• Comprehensive health, dental and vision coverage.
• Generous paid time off, parental leave and holidays.
• A 401(k) plan with an exceptional employer contribution.
• Professional development support.
• A modern downtown office with free parking along the Scioto Mile.
• A high-impact, mission-driven team that’s doing big things for the Columbus metro.