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James Waters
Associate Director at Ginkgo Bioworks, Inc.
Professional Background
James Waters is a dynamic leader in the intersection of molecular biology, biochemistry, and corporate strategy, leveraging his academic background and professional experiences to drive innovation in the biotechnology sector. Currently, he serves as the Associate Director of Corporate Strategy at Ginkgo Bioworks, Inc., a company that pioneers in the field of synthetic biology. In this role, James plays a critical role in aligning corporate objectives with strategic initiatives, ensuring that Ginkgo continues to lead and innovate in bioengineering solutions. His career trajectory at Ginkgo has been characterized by impressive leadership and a commitment to advancing the capabilities of the organization.
Previously, James held the position of Strategy Manager at Ginkgo Bioworks. His expertise in corporate strategy was refined further as he managed various projects that addressed the intricate challenges facing the life sciences industry. His ability to analyze complex data and develop tactical responses has been instrumental in the company's growth and market positioning.
Before his time at Ginkgo, James was the Manager of Operations Strategy at Zymergen, Inc., a company that specializes in combining biology and technology to create advanced materials. In this capacity, he honed his skills in operations management and strategic execution, helping to streamline processes and drive down costs, ultimately enhancing Zymergen's competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving market.
James started his career in consulting at ClearView Healthcare Partners, where he served as a Life Sciences/Biopharma Management Consulting Analyst. His analytical skills and market insights contributed significantly to client projects that addressed critical business decisions in the biopharmaceutical sector. His time at ClearView paved the way for opportunities that followed, such as a Summer Associate role at Mercury Fund, gaining exposure to startup finance and venture capital, emphasizing his versatility in both strategy and financial analysis.
Additionally, James’s foundational experiences include a Research Internship at the George Church Lab within the Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering. This role provided him with practical laboratory experience in advanced genetic engineering and biotechnology, enriching his understanding of the scientific principles that underpin the industries he now navigates strategically.
Education and Achievements
James Waters received his Bachelor of Arts in Molecular Biology/Biochemistry and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Middlebury College, a prestigious liberal arts institution known for its rigorous academic programs. The combination of these two fields uniquely positions James at the intersection of science and business, equipping him with a distinct skillset that is highly sought after in the biotech industry.
Throughout his educational journey, James developed a deep understanding of the biochemical processes that are crucial to life sciences, while also delving into the economic principles that govern business operations and market dynamics. This dual expertise is invaluable, particularly in the context of developing business strategies for biotech firms that require a nuanced appreciation of both scientific and commercial considerations.
His achievements extend beyond formal education, reflected in his impressive trajectory through various esteemed organizations. At Ginkgo Bioworks, James has played a pivotal role in shaping corporate strategy initiatives that harness cutting-edge biotechnological advancements for a diverse range of applications. His capability to blend scientific knowledge with strategic foresight has proven to be a significant asset.
Achievements
- Corporate Strategy Leadership: As Associate Director at Ginkgo Bioworks, James has cultivated significant corporate strategies that have contributed to the company's reputation as a leader in synthetic biology.
- Operational Excellence: At Zymergen, he managed operations strategy effectively, contributing to streamlined processes and enhanced efficiency within the organization.
- Analytical Insight Development: His experience at ClearView Healthcare Partners provided him with the ability to deliver impactful consulting strategies for clients in the biopharmaceutical space, demonstrating adeptness in utilizing analytical insights for decision-making.
- Research Contributions: James participated in groundbreaking research at the George Church Lab, contributing to advancements in the field of biogenetics and engineering, a testimony to his hands-on experience and scientific acumen.
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Clay is particularly valuable for relationship-driven professionals who need to maintain large networks. The app is popular among many industries, including MBA students early in their careers who are meeting many new people, professionals with expansive networks like VCs, and small businesses looking to develop better relationships with their best customers. Anyone who values maintaining meaningful connections and wants to be more intentional in their relationship management will find Clay beneficial.
Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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