WIB-Seattle Steering Committee Announcement, February 18, 2025

WIB-Seattle is pleased to welcome Kristi Heim, Elena Sinclair, and Samantha Lewandowski to our Steering Committee!

Kristi Heim, Chair of the Communications Committee

Kristi is an accomplished communications leader with over 20 years of experience in media, international business, and life sciences. She has managed public relations and marketing/communications strategies for growing companies and helped forge impactful global partnerships. Kristi’s leadership roles include serving as Senior Director of Communications for Element Biosciences, where she led the communications strategy for a rapidly growing DNA sequencing company. Before that, she was Director of Corporate Communications at I-Mab Biopharma, a clinical-stage company specializing in immuno-oncology drugs. Prior to I-Mab, she led international communications and business development at Complete Genomics. As an award-winning journalist, Kristi has written for publications such as The Seattle Times, The San Jose Mercury News, and The Wall Street Journal. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from California State University Fullerton and a master’s degree in international studies from the University of Washington. Currently, she consults companies and organizations on marketing and communications strategies, focusing on cancer, global health, and cutting-edge medical technologies. She is passionate about supporting innovative health solutions to improve the lives of people around the world.

Elena Sinclair, Chair of the Membership Committee

With over 20 years of experience in the life sciences, Elena is a versatile scientist whose expertise spans multiple areas and bioanalytical platforms. Her career includes leading academic laboratories, running IND-enabling studies, and establishing critical programs such as an oncology biorepository and a biomarker and biospecimen department for cell and gene therapy trials. With advanced degrees in integrative biology, neuroscience, business administration, and AI-driven decision-making, Elena combines scientific expertise with strategic operational leadership. She has also played a key role in impactful initiatives with the Project Management Institute in Dallas.

Samantha Lewandowski, Vice Chair of the Membership Committee

Samantha is an experienced startup human resources and talent professional, with her most recent roles being the Director of Human Resources at TwinStrand Biosciences in Seattle, WA, and the Human Resources & Talent Manager at Evozyne in Chicago, IL. She has always worn many "hats" in the HR world. Still, some of her favorite projects have included launching a performance management program and developing an intensive internship recruitment strategy and program. Samantha has proven experience working across levels and departments, providing counsel to executives and other senior leaders while maintaining an approachable presence for the general employee population. She loves creative problem-solving and fostering work environments where employees want to remain employed. Samantha holds a master's in human resources & employment relations and a bachelor's in psychology from Loyola University Chicago. She looks forward to joining the WIB team and expanding its membership reach in Seattle!