Sustain SC Team grows with hiring of Senior VP of Conservation, Kristen Austin Gunter

Sustain SC, a nonprofit organization connecting the sustainability goals of business in South Carolina with local solutions, announced Kristen Austin Gunter has joined as Senior Vice President of Conservation.

With a robust background in conservation and sustainability, Kristen will lead conservation efforts for Sustain SC as it continues to unite diverse groups and create solutions for natural resources and people alike. For more than 25 years, she worked with The Nature Conservancy, where she spearheaded conservation programs in South Carolina, the Midwest, and the Southern Appalachians.

Kristen Austin Gunter

“Sustain SC is in a unique position to proactively advance sustainability in a way that prioritizes conservation, and I am extremely grateful to be a part of such an important mission,” said Kristen Austin Gunter, Sustain SC Senior VP for Conservation. “I believe the key to success is trusted relationships, and I look forward to building collaborative partnerships that benefit South Carolina’s economy, environment, and people.”

Kristen will be instrumental in igniting change by delivering practical solutions, capitalizing on policy expertise, managing sustainable financing, and fostering partnerships to target the specific needs of each industry in the state. As a former conservation director, Kristen negotiated complex land transactions and managed natural resources in alliance with government agencies, non-profits, and public utilities.

“As Sustain SC grows, Kristen’s leadership will play a pivotal role in strengthening the connection between conservation and commerce in South Carolina,” said Leslie Skardon, Sustain SC CEO. “We’re excited to welcome someone with Kristen’s expertise and believe her background will enhance our ability to execute The Roadmap to Sustain SC and expand our conservation efforts across the state.”

Kristen is a respected community leader in Greenville and was appointed by the Greenville City Council to serve on its Sustainability Committee where she plays an active role in shaping the city’s future. Her successful completion of Leadership Greenville and the Urban Land Institute’s Sustainable Leadership Program further reflects her dedication and commitment to driving meaningful change.

Leveraging her love for conservation with strong business and relationship skills, Kristen is poised to bring South Carolina businesses together to strengthen established industries, draw in emerging sectors, enhance the well-being of all residents, and preserve natural resources.

About Sustain SC

Sustain SC is an economic development-driven organization that connects the sustainability goals of businesses in South Carolina with local solutions for the benefit of our economy, environment, and people.