Sophia Sharp Donaldson
About Sophia Sharp Donaldson
Sophia Sharp Donaldson serves as the Executive Director and Operations Site Head at Kite Pharma, where she has worked since 2022. With extensive experience in supply chain management and a strong background in life sciences, she has held leadership roles at several notable companies, including Baxalta and Bristol Myers Squibb.
Current Role at Kite Pharma
Sophia Sharp Donaldson serves as the Executive Director, Operations Site Head at Kite Pharma, a position she has held since 2022. In this role, she is responsible for overseeing operations at the San Diego County site. Her leadership focuses on enhancing operational efficiency and ensuring the successful delivery of innovative therapies in the field of cell therapy.
Previous Experience in Strategic Sourcing and Supply Chain Management
Prior to her current role, Donaldson held several significant positions in the pharmaceutical industry. She worked at Baxalta as the Global Head of Strategic Sourcing & Supplier Management from 2014 to 2016. She also served as the Sr. Director of Strategic Sourcing at Atara Biotherapeutics from 2018 to 2019 and as Sr. Director of Global Supply Chain at Baxter International Inc. from 2009 to 2014. Her experience encompasses a range of supply chain and procurement responsibilities across various organizations.
Educational Background
Sophia Sharp Donaldson earned her Master of Science in Information Systems from Stevens Institute of Technology, studying from 2000 to 2002. She also holds multiple Bachelor of Science degrees in Business Administration from the University of Southern Indiana and Indiana University Bloomington. Her educational background provides a strong foundation for her roles in operations and supply chain management within the life sciences sector.
Expertise in Life Sciences Operations
Donaldson possesses extensive experience in both clinical and commercial operations, particularly in large and small molecule and cell (T-cell) modalities. She specializes in leading transformational changes within life sciences companies, focusing on high-performing team building and P&L responsibilities. Her passion for making a difference in patients' lives is driven by her commitment to the life sciences field.
Leadership in CAR-T Manufacturing
During her tenure at Bristol Myers Squibb from 2006 to 2009, Donaldson led the integration of autologous CAR-T manufacturing operations. This initiative was part of a pioneering effort within the biotech industry aimed at developing innovative cancer therapies. Her leadership in this area highlights her capability in managing complex operations in cutting-edge therapeutic environments.