American Institutes for Research (AIR) Executive and Leadership Team

Pamela Keefe, the Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer at American Institutes for Research (AIR), manages the fiscal health and long-term financial sustainability of the organization. Keefe oversees budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation to ensure that research initiatives receive the necessary funding for rigorous scientific inquiry. By maintaining strict financial controls, the Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer supports the independence and non-partisanship of all research activities. This leadership role involves analyzing market trends and operational costs to optimize the deployment of capital across various substantive areas, including health research and international education. Pamela Keefe drives financial transparency and accountability, providing the board and executive leadership with the data required for strategic decision-making. Through prudent fiscal management, the Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer enables the organization to pursue innovative answers to complex societal challenges while maintaining a stable and robust economic foundation.

Blanchie Kelley, the Chief of Staff at American Institutes for Research (AIR), coordinates executive operations and aligns internal initiatives with the broader mission of behavioral science advancement. Kelley manages the flow of information between the executive office and various research divisions, ensuring that organizational priorities remain focused on high-impact social science outcomes. By streamlining decision-making processes, the Chief of Staff facilitates cross-departmental collaboration across the North American research landscape. This leadership role requires constant monitoring of institutional goals to maintain the independence and objectivity central to the organization. Blanchie Kelley drives operational efficiency by translating complex research objectives into actionable administrative strategies. Through the management of key internal projects, the Chief of Staff supports the overall institutional capacity to address critical societal challenges. This position ensures that all administrative functions directly bolster the scientific integrity and public impact of the organization.

Lesley Sepanloo, the Chief Human Resources Officer at American Institutes for Research (AIR), directs talent acquisition and workforce development for a diverse team of over 1,800 experts. Sepanloo architects comprehensive strategies to attract top-tier professionals in psychology, economics, and psychometrics, ensuring the organization maintains its competitive edge in social science research. Overseeing global talent management initiatives, the Chief Human Resources Officer fosters an inclusive culture that supports the intellectual diversity required for complex research projects. This role involves designing performance frameworks that align individual contributions with the long-term goals of the institution. Lesley Sepanloo optimizes human capital by implementing professional development programs that enhance the capabilities of the research staff. By prioritizing equity and performance, the Chief Human Resources Officer secures the human infrastructure necessary for the organization to tackle the most pressing issues in education, health, and human development.

Makini Nyanteh, the Senior Vice President, Chief Communications Officer at American Institutes for Research (AIR), directs the dissemination of research findings to influence public policy and enhance everyday life. Nyanteh architects communication strategies that translate complex behavioral and social science data into accessible insights for diverse stakeholders. Overseeing global brand presence and media relations, the Senior Vice President, Chief Communications Officer ensures that the organization's commitment to objectivity and non-partisanship remains central to all public messaging. This role involves managing digital platforms, graphics, and video communications to amplify the impact of research in education, health, and employment equity. Makini Nyanteh drives engagement by connecting the work of the organization with the needs of policymakers and the public. Through strategic storytelling and outreach, the Senior Vice President, Chief Communications Officer elevates the visibility of the institution, ensuring that evidence-based ideas reach the audiences capable of implementing meaningful change.