Sayaka Yamanaka

Sayaka Yamanaka has a diverse work experience spanning multiple roles and companies. Sayaka currently works at Genomatica as the Associate Director Strategic Partnerships. Prior to this role, they worked as a Business Development Manager at Genomatica.

Before joining Genomatica, Sayaka worked at Asahi Kasei America as a Business Development Manager, where they were responsible for business development for three projects. Sayaka led a team to re-purpose a medical grade textile and created a business expansion strategy for the company. Sayaka also worked as a New Business Development Manager, where they launched a new R&D theme for orthopedic medical devices and collaborated with a consultant from Germany.

Earlier in their career, Sayaka worked at Asahi Kasei Corporation as an R&D Team Lead Manager. Sayaka implemented bio-based chemical technology, managed a diverse project team, and built relationships with C-level stakeholders. Sayaka also conducted market research and bench-marked existing technologies for strategy and planning purposes.

Before joining Asahi Kasei Corporation, Sayaka worked as an Investment Manager at Mitsui & Co. Global Investment Ltd., where they sourced deals, performed due diligence, and made investments in the Cleantech industry.

Sayaka started their career at Asahi Kasei Corporation as an R&D Planning & Strategy Associate. Sayaka conducted market research, identified target businesses, and proposed internal technologies for commercialization. Sayaka also held roles as a Senior Researcher and Researcher, where they led R&D teams, developed new technologies, and collaborated with international partners.

Throughout their career, Sayaka has demonstrated expertise in business development, project management, market research, and technology commercialization.

Sayaka Yamanaka obtained a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry from Kyushu University, where they studied from 1992 to 1996. Sayaka continued their education at Kyushu University and graduated with a Master's degree in Bioinorganic Chemistry in 1998.