Aj Poncin

AJ Poncin is an accomplished leader in the non-profit and international research sector, currently serving as the Chief Transformation Officer at the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) since May 2024. Previously, AJ held significant positions at the International Rice Research Institute from July 2017 to June 2024, including Chief of Staff and Head of the Portfolio Management Office, where responsibilities involved overseeing a diverse portfolio of over 115 active projects with an expenditure exceeding $65 million annually. AJ also managed substantial Research for Development projects at the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) from June 2012 to June 2017, leading public-private partnerships with major donors. AJ's career began with service in the Florida Army National Guard as a Quartermaster Officer from June 2002 to June 2008 and continued at ISAF until June 2012. AJ earned a degree in Environmental Science and Policy from the University of South Florida.