)
My passion is collaborating with diverse teams to work more efficiently, reduce churn, and deliver results.
biography
Overview
After 20 years leading global teams and driving impact at the cross-section of health and project management, Vajra decided it was time to fulfill a dream of founding a project management consulting business. Vajra chose the name of Sophos (meaning wisdom) Solutions to reflect the balance of deep experience and action-oriented problem solving that she brings to any challenge she encounters
Career Highlights
- 3 WHO prequalified products
- 5 commercialized health products
- Mentored 8 early career staff into project management roles
- Deployed and promoted PATH's Equity in Programming Benchmarks
EDucation
- Project Management Professional (PMP), PMI
- Master of Public Administration, University of Washington
- Bachelor of Arts, Classical Languages, University of Montana
CV
I drive cross-functional teams to create innovative solutions and not accept business as usual. I excel in crafting strategies and translating high-level goals into actionable implementation plans for health programs and product development. I am passionate about building cohesive teams and identifying opportunities for synergy, learning, and collaboration.
2025-Present
Sophos Solutions LLC
Founder and Principal Consultant Provide bespoke program management and operations services to global health and biotech organizations focused on efficiency and impact Current Engagements: - Deputy Director for Sonder Collective’s Pathways program leading operations and program management for a global team - Develop program management systems and tools for small to medium-sized companies - Guide teams to more efficiently manage their workload and decision-making2011- present
Seattle Children's RESEARCH INSTITUTE
Ethics Committee Member Review study protocols for ethical considerations and informed consent for pediatric oncology studies2021-2025
PATH, Vaccines program
Associate Director of Project Management Led matrixed teams to deliver complex projects that met donor and community requirements. Operations lead for product development teams from pre-clinical to regulatory approval. Relationship manager with donors, researchers and private sector partners. Key achievements: - Portfolio management across three disease portfolios with $50 million in funding and simultaneous vaccine studies in 5 countries (ph 1-3) - Oversaw complex contracts with manufacturers and research partners including negotiating scope of works, budgets and monitoring performance - Championed the Equity in Programming to improve project outcomes by standardizing tools and benchmarks across PATH2013-2020
PATH, diagnostics Program
Director Project and Portfolio Management Scaled methods for project management operations and tools across a portfolio. Facilitated a coalition of donors, NGOs and product developers for coordinated introduction of a malaria drug and diagnostic.
Key achievements: - Scaled COVID environmental surveillance and research network across 8 countries while working virtually during lockdowns - Led a matrixed team of 25 professionals with over $30M in funding, delivering 5 commercial diagnostic tests and clinical data for WHO prequalification- Established the project management team and standardized project management tools - Cultivated an external advisory board to attain buy-in and support for the portfolio strategy2010-2013
Washington Global Health Alliance
Director of Programs Founded a grant program to support healthcare product development. Directed high-profile events with elected officials and global health leaders to increase visibility and support for the global health sector. Represented WGHA externally with C-suite leaders from private sector, international agencies, NGOs, and donor community. Key achievements: - Established and directed a $1.2M state-funded grant program, including assessing applications, conducting due diligence, and presenting recommendations to the community board - Organized a series of events on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC to engage elected officials on global health issues2010
project Management Professional (PMP)
International project management credential obtained from Project Management International2006-2010
International Community Health services
Planning, Development and Evaluation Manager Led enterprise fundraising and program development. Built a team composed of administrators, data analysts, and grant writers. Responsible for establishing policy and leading strategic planning and execution. Key achievements: - Project managed a $3.5M medical and dental clinic expansion to on-budget completion including financial management and stakeholder communication - Implemented right-sized institutional project management tools - Led team responsible for US government grant ($2M annually) reporting and compliance2005
Master of PubliC Administration
University of Washington Evans School of Public Policy