Menu
Karthik Rajpurohit
Karthik Rajpurohit

Karthik Rajpurohit

Senior Director of Data Science & Operations Research
Target
Bio

Karthik Rajpurohit is Senior Director of Data Science & Operations Research at Target, where he leads teams focussed on delivering enterprise-wide analytics, optimization, and AI solutions across supply chain, ecommerce, and enterprise operations. With 19+ years of experience, Karthik has driven more than $350M in business impact through large-scale logistics optimization, inventory reduction, omni-channel network design, and data-driven capital investment decisions. His work focuses on turning advanced Data Science, OR, and AI into scalable products that improve precision, cost, and consumer experience, while building high-performing, cross-functional teams and modern data platforms. Prior to Target, Karthik held analytics and OR roles across airlines, financial services, automotive, and technology at organizations including United Airlines (via TCG Digital), GE’s Genpact, GM, and Infosys.


Beyond the Model: Three Human Skills That Multiply Data Science & OR Impact

In analytics and operations research, technical excellence is essential—but it’s not enough to create organizational value. Many brilliant models never impact decisions simply because we fail at three non‑scientific yet powerful skills: framing, communicating, and influencing. Whether you are a student aiming for industry relevance or a professional seeking to elevate organizational impact, this talk provides practical tools to turn analytical brilliance into lasting change.

This session unpacks **three human skills** that amplify the real-world impact of Data Science and OR professionals. You’ll learn how to **frame problems with clarity**—falling in love with *learning the problem* before solving it. Using frameworks like “What–So What–Then What” and “The Five Whys,” we’ll explore how asking better questions helps prevent solving the wrong problem. Next, through live mini-experiments and real corporate examples, we’ll see the **neuroscience behind clear communication** and practical ways to turn complex analysis into stories that inspire action. Finally, we’ll focus on **influencing through networks**—how quiet professionals, not just extroverts, can shape decisions by nurturing authentic connections. You’ll leave with simple, evidence-based frameworks to map, build, and activate your own influence network.

Essential / Professional
Back To Top

The Institute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences

5521 Research Park Drive, Suite 200
Catonsville, MD 21228 USA

phone 1 443-757-3500

phone 2 800-4INFORMS (800-446-3676)

fax 443-757-3515

email

Get the Latest Updates

Copyright INFORMS. All Rights Reserved