Mar Perez

Mar Perez is the Head of Innovation Economy Banking – Head of Life Sciences, Tech and Venture Banking at Commercial Bank of California, where she leads strategic initiatives to expand CBC’s footprint in high-growth sectors. Based in San Francisco, Mar focuses on building partnerships that connect banking with innovation ecosystems, including technology, healthcare, life sciences, venture capital, and startup banking.

With over two decades of experience spanning venture capital, biotech, and financial services, Mar brings a unique perspective to CBC’s mission to transform how businesses think about banking. Prior to joining CBC, Mar served as Principal at InCube Ventures, an investment fund dedicated to disruptive healthcare innovation. In this role, Mar managed fundraising efforts across Latin America, Europe, and the U.S., screened hundreds of deals annually, and played a key role in taking Rani Therapeutics from incubation to IPO—an achievement backed by investors such as Google Ventures and Novartis.

Mar’s career began in government affairs and sales at Johnson & Johnson, followed by leadership roles in investor relations and business development at biotech and medtech companies. This foundation in life sciences and venture capital enriches Mar’s current work in bridging financial solutions with emerging industries.

An alum of the Kauffman Fellows Program, Mar holds an International MBA, as well as a degree in business management from Universidad San Pablo CEU and Leeds Metropolitan University. Originally from Spain, Mar has lived and worked in the United Kingdom and Australia before relocating to Silicon Valley in 2012, where Mar continues to champion innovation and entrepreneurship.

Mar is passionate about creating value through strategic partnerships and is actively involved in positioning CBC within San Francisco’s tech and Venture Capital community. Known for intellectual curiosity and a collaborative approach, Mar partners with Venture Funds and entrepreneurs to build businesses from the ground up with proven teams, while expanding CBC’s capabilities where large banks fall short. This approach ensures that innovators and investors have access to tailored financial solutions that foster growth and resilience.