Leadership
EXECUTIVE TEAM
Olgica Bakajin, Ph.D.
CEO, Co-founder, Board Member
Dr. Bakajin has led the company’s strategic direction, developing the team and technology from early-stage R&D to international commercial sales by Global Fortune 500 brands. Under her leadership, the company has been honored with many accolades, including the United States’ Small Business Administration Program’s Tibbetts Award for exemplary achievement as a small business, in addition to several local innovation awards.
Dr. Bakajin received her B.A. in Physics and Chemistry from the University of Chicago and her Ph.D. in Physics from Princeton University. She is named an inventor on more than 20 patent families and her scientific works, including peer-reviewed publications in Nature and Science, have been cited more than 19,000 times. With over 20 years of experience in developing novel technologies, she has a proven track record of delivering innovative solutions that address some of the most pressing challenges facing our world today.
Scott Cooper
President - Porifera Beverages
With 15 years of C-Suite leadership, Scott Cooper has a track record of breathing new life into businesses and brands and unlocking new opportunities across a range of industries.
Scott has led large businesses and teams with full P&L accountability for a $2B business (Molson Coors) through to leading start-up breaking new ground (Truss Beverages). As former Chief Innovation Officer for Molson Coors, Scott is an expert in corporate innovation and has led both private and public companies.
Jennifer Klare, Ph.D.
Vice President of Operations, Senior Director of Applications
Dr. Klare plays a crucial role in the company's ongoing success and growth. Dr. Klare has been with Porifera Inc. since its founding in 2010 and has played a critical role in the development of the company's core technologies.
Dr. Klare's deep technical expertise and close working relationships with customers have been instrumental in the successful development and commercialization of several of Porifera's most innovative products.
Ramandeep Mehmi
Director of Engineering
Ramandeep Mehmi has a proven track record developing and commercializing water management technologies from concept to commercialization. He leads Porifera’s Engineering team to develop road maps, reduce risk, and overcome technical hurdles through hands-on leadership. Ramandeep holds Master’s and bachelor’s degrees from San Jose State University and is a named contributor on 7 patents.