Vice Admiral (Ret.) Sara A. Joyner is a Senior Managing Director on Cerberus’ Supply Chain and Strategic Opportunities team, which invests in businesses seeking to drive next-generation technologies and capabilities that advance national security and supply chain integrity. Vice Admiral Joyner joined Cerberus in 2026, following 36 years of distinguished service in the United States Navy as a Strike Fighter Naval Aviator.
Most recently, she served on the Joint Staff as Director of Force Structure, Resources, and Assessment, advising senior Department of War leadership on strategic solutions related to joint force capabilities and resourcing. In this role, she played a leading part in the Department’s force design efforts, providing analysis across domains ranging from the seabed to cislunar space. During her naval career, Vice Admiral Joyner held numerous senior leadership positions, including Chief of Navy Legislative Affairs, Commander of a carrier strike group, and Commander of a carrier air wing. She served in combat at sea during multiple conflicts, including Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, and received numerous awards and decorations, including the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, the Navy Distinguished Service Medal, and the Legion of Merit.
Vice Admiral Joyner is a graduate of the United States Naval Academy and served as a member of the Naval War College Strategic Studies Group.