South Carolina retail association names new executive director

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Krista Hinson of Columbia has been named the new executive director of the South Carolina Retail Association. She was selected by the organization’s board of directors to lead the statewide trade association which represents South Carolina retailers, according to a news release.

“Krista brings the perfect combination of association and government relations experience to this position,” Kimberly Siomkos, government relations manager for Public and SCRA Board Chair, said in the release.  “We believe under her leadership the association will bolster its membership and further establish itself as the voice of the retail industry before the legislature and others within state and local government.”

Hinson most recently served as vice president of government relations for the S.C. Hospital Association where she has been employed for more than nine years serving in advocacy and government relations.

She is a graduate of the Leadership South Carolina program and currently serves on several professional boards and councils including the Public Affairs Council, the American College of Healthcare Executives, and the Healthcare Financial Management Association. In addition, she volunteers her time in the community by serving as the Health Division Chair for the United Way of the Midlands Capital Campaign Committee, as well as serving on the Community Partner Development Committee for the Junior League of Columbia, and as a member of the Contemporaries of the Columbia Museum of Art.

In her new role, Hinson will represent the retail industry before the state legislature and regulatory agencies.

“The retail industry has most certainly seen its share of highs and lows in the last few years, and what I’ve been most impressed by is South Carolina retailers’ resilience and their dedication to providing their customers with quality products and excellent customer service”, Hinson said. “I am so grateful to serve the members of this association and this industry, and to have the opportunity to champion the voice of retailers of all types and sizes across the state.”

Hinson holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Minnesota and a master’s degree in health administration from the University of South Carolina. She resides in Columbia, SC.

The South Carolina Retail Association is dedicated to improving the public image, effectiveness and profitability of the state’s retail industry. It represents diverse retail entities including apparel, automotive, boutique, chain restaurants, convenience and department stores, electronics, grocery, hardware and pharmacies.