Karen Chandler Cain

Karen Chandler Cain has over 20 years of experience in financial operations and partnerships within the non-profit and research sectors, currently serving as the Director of Financial Operations at the International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) since September 2003, where career progression included five promotions. Key achievements include managing significant budgets totaling $21 million while overseeing collaborations with African research centers to address AIDS research. Prior roles at IAVI encompassed budget management for global research networks and strategic planning for clinical development. Additional experience includes educating communities about HIV in Tanzania, leading a non-profit organization during the rise of the digital divide, and supporting democratic processes in South Africa. Karen Chandler Cain holds a MA in Intercultural Relations from Lesley University and a BA in History and Black Studies from Lafayette College, complemented by studies at the University of Cape Town.