Kayla Valdes

About Kayla Valdes

Dynamic leader with extensive experience in program management, establishing strategic partnerships, and business strategy and operations. Expert in combining scientific acumen and operational excellence to seamlessly execute cross-functional initiatives and deliver high-impact projects. Exceptional in fostering collaboration and facilitating alignment across diverse teams, building productive partnerships, and enhancing governance to inspire engagement and drive performance. Doctorate in molecular microbiology with a proven track record of process development and optimization.

Experience

1. Pipeline Lead - Global Medical Affairs Operations

   Kite Pharma

   Dec 2023 — Present

   Led the implementation of program management (PM) strategies for Global Medical Affairs (GMA) Pipeline Asset Teams, ensuring seamless execution of Global Medical Teams’ (GMT) activities. Collaborated cross-functionally with GMA partners to develop and deliver comprehensive Medical Plans (ie. gPOAs, IEGPs, SCPs, Functional Plans), successfully coordinated external GMA events (ie. advisory boards) through strategic vendor management. This integrated approach resulted in on-time execution of deliverables and enhanced alignment across stakeholders, driving operational excellence.• Spearheaded the operationalization of GMA product launch activities for new MM asset by proactively identifying milestones and interdependencies critical for launch. Delivered measurable impact by creating a GMA launch readiness playbook and an integrated launch timeline for Medical activities.• Led Medical Affairs alliance activities for the MM asset by managing key joint governance forums for GMA. Drove consensus and decision-making between alliance partners, established clear charters, negotiated tactic lead for activities, and ensured the timely delivery of contractual obligations. Implemented a risk reporting and escalation processes in collaboration with the compliance and alliance management teams that identified potential challenges early, allowing for proactive mitigation and smooth collaboration within the partnership.• Led the cross-functional development and management of annual budgets the pipeline, including quarterly forecasting of activities. Instituted routine touchpoints with Global and Functional Leads to align on prioritized tactics and budget allocation, improving visibility and decision-making across the GMTs. Successfully negotiated cost sharing with alliance partners within and outside of contractual stipulations. Successfully supported the LE process and year-end budget close-out with FP & A,

Education

• Cornell University

  Bachelor of Science (BS), Biological Sciences - Microbiology

• University of Maryland

  Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), Biological Sciences - Molecular and Cell Biology