Kelly Priestley is a senior financial executive with over 20 years of experience leading accounting and finance operations across nonprofit, public, and private sectors. She currently serves as Controller at the Allen Institute, where she oversees and managers financial activities ensuring accurate financial reporting, compliance and regulatory requirements and the transparency of financial activities in support of the organization’s mission to unlock the mysteries of biology through cutting-edge research.

Before joining the Allen Institute, Kelly was the Global Head of Accounting & Finance Operations at PATH, a global nonprofit focused on public health innovation. At PATH, she led a team of

professionals across financial reporting, compliance, treasury, and procurement. Her leadership drove improvements in audit outcomes, reduced overhead costs, and strengthened compliance and transparency—key priorities in mission-driven organizations.

Earlier in her career, Kelly spent 16 years at Sound Transit, one of the largest recipients of federal funding in the U.S. There, she led financial operations with a focus on accountability and clean audits, and played a pivotal role in implementing GASB 34, a landmark change in government financial reporting. Her background also includes leadership roles in both privately and publicly held companies in distribution and light manufacturing, as well as foundational experience at KPMG.

Kelly is passionate about building strong financial infrastructures that empower scientific and social missions. Her transition to the Allen Institute was driven by a desire to contribute her financial expertise to organizations advancing science and climate solutions. Though not a scientist herself, she brings a strategic lens to financial operations that supports groundbreaking research through sound governance and operational excellence.  She holds a degree in economics from McGill University and is a licensed professional accountant. Kelly is known for her technical expertise, collaborative leadership, and commitment to aligning financial business processes and systems related strategy for organizational impact.