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Sara Rona
Managing Director, Head of Europe, MENA & ANZ | International Business Development
Professional Background
Sara Rona is a seasoned business development professional with a robust background in international business and strategic growth across various sectors, particularly in the tech ecosystem. She operates from New York City but holds a significant focus on markets in Europe, the UK, the Middle East, North Africa, and Australia & New Zealand. With a deep-rooted passion for assisting founders in scaling their business and expanding into the US market, Sara brings a wealth of experience and expertise that directly contributes to turning ambitious ideas into thriving enterprises.
Throughout her career, Sara has held impressive roles at various prestigious organizations, predominantly at Silicon Valley Bank, where her influence in the tech and healthcare sectors has been undeniably profound. Previously, she served as Managing Director, where she developed a strategic vision that helped drive growth and build deeper partnerships around the globe. Her journey has also encompassed various mentorship positions, including notable contributions at Metagrove Ventures and WEVE Acceleration, where she guided emerging companies through the complex landscape of business development.
Furthermore, her international work experience spans across different regions, giving her unique insights into diverse market dynamics. Sara's management roles have not only equipped her with critical leadership skills but have also enabled her to foster collaborations that transcend borders, making her an invaluable asset in the global business arena.
Education and Achievements
Sara Rona's educational journey is equally impressive and underpins her professional accomplishments. She earned a Bachelor of Science in International Business with a dual emphasis in European Studies and French at Old Dominion University, where she developed a keen understanding of cross-cultural business environments. Following this, she pursued an MBA in International Business Practice at St. Mary's University College, further honing her strategic management and global business acumen.
In addition to her formal education, Sara has completed a certification in International Business Practice with a focus on Asia at Naresuan University. This enriching experience not only broadened her understanding of the Asian markets but also highlighted the importance of cultural nuances in international business success.
Sara's educational accomplishments have equipped her with the tools to navigate complex business landscapes and to innovate practical solutions for diverse challenges faced by companies in their growth journeys. Her educational foundation, coupled with her rich professional experience, has made her a respected figure within the international business community.
Notable Achievements
Sara's career is dotted with numerous notable achievements, particularly during her tenure at Silicon Valley Bank, where she held various leadership positions. As the Head of Australia & New Zealand and Global Strategic Channel Partnerships, she was instrumental in establishing key partnerships that drove significant business growth and opened new avenues for international collaborations.
Her role as Director of Strategy for Tech & Healthcare Banking further showcased her ability to align business strategies with innovative solutions, fostering environments ripe for growth and expansion. This strategic oversight ensured the bank's continuous evolution within competitive markets, particularly in emerging sectors.
Beyond the banking sector, her experience as a Senior Director and Head of Product at Opus involved the development of strategic initiatives that significantly enhanced product offerings, addressing the evolving needs of clients across diverse segments.
Sara's journey also includes a solid background in compliance and risk management during her tenure at HSBC Global Banking and Markets, culminating in roles such as Associate Vice President. Her understanding of regulatory frameworks ensures she approaches business development with a holistic view of both opportunities and challenges.
With contributions as a consultant at the International Finance Corporation and a project management analyst at Deutsche Bank, Sara has been recognized for her analytical skills and decision-making capabilities, allowing her to effectively lead cross-functional teams in delivering impactful results.
Her mentorship activities at various startup accelerators demonstrate her commitment to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs, providing insights from her vast experiences to help them navigate the complexities of establishing successful ventures.
In summary, Sara Rona is exceptionally skilled in business development within the European, Middle Eastern, North African, Australian, and New Zealand markets. With a robust educational background, extensive international experience, and a genuine passion for helping others succeed, she continues to make a significant impact in the tech ecosystem and beyond. Her career is a testament to the power of strategic thinking, innovative approaches, and a heartfelt commitment to fostering global entrepreneurship.
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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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