Tara Yokomizo Ponce
About Tara Yokomizo Ponce
Tara Yokomizo Ponce serves as the Head of Procurement at Sana Biotechnology, Inc., where she has worked since 2021. She has extensive experience in the biopharmaceutical industry, having previously held the position of Senior Director at Genentech for 25 years, and is recognized for her leadership in global team development and risk management.
Work at Sana Biotechnology
Tara Yokomizo Ponce serves as the Head of Procurement at Sana Biotechnology, Inc. since 2021. In this role, she is responsible for overseeing procurement strategies and operations, ensuring alignment with the company's corporate and technical objectives. Her leadership in procurement is informed by her extensive experience in the biopharmaceutical sector, where she has developed strong business alliances to support organizational goals.
Previous Experience at Genentech
Before joining Sana Biotechnology, Tara Yokomizo Ponce worked at Genentech for 25 years, holding the position of Senior Director, Global DS Direct Materials Procurement from 1996 to 2021. During her tenure, she was instrumental in managing procurement processes and developing strategies that supported the company's operational needs. Her long-standing experience at Genentech provided her with a solid foundation in the biopharmaceutical industry.
Education and Expertise
Tara Yokomizo Ponce earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics from the University of California, Los Angeles, where she studied from 1992 to 1996. Her educational background complements her expertise in risk evaluation and mitigation within the regulated biopharmaceutical industry, equipping her with the necessary skills to navigate complex procurement challenges.
Background in Technical Operations
Tara Yokomizo Ponce has a background in Technical Operations, which encompasses leadership roles in processing and technical troubleshooting across various sectors, including Commercial, Clinical, and Process Development Operations. This experience has enabled her to effectively lead global teams and enhance operational efficiencies within the organizations she has served.
Leadership and Team Development
Tara Yokomizo Ponce is recognized for her ability to hire, develop, and lead global teams effectively. Her leadership style focuses on forming and maintaining strong business alliances that align with corporate and technical objectives, which has been a significant aspect of her career in procurement and operations.