Sustain SC names new CEO

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Statewide nonprofit Sustain SC has s new leader.

The board of directors of Sustain SC, a nonprofit organization connecting the sustainability goals of business in South Carolina with local solutions, has appointed Leslie Skardon as CEO, according to a news release.

Skardon will lead Sustain SC as it works to build on its mission to connect businesses and local stakeholders to support both economic growth and conservation priorities, the release stated. She has worked with Fortune 500 companies, governments, and nonprofits to advance growth, implement strategic initiatives, and coordinate corporate responsibility programs.

“I’m thrilled to join Sustain SC and serve an organization that is committed to driving South Carolina forward,” Skardon said in the release. “It is an exciting time for economic growth in South Carolina and I am honored to help build longevity for both commerce and sustainability in our state.”

Skardon will play a crucial role in navigating the diverse landscape of sustainable economic development while accommodating the specific needs of every type of industry, existing and future, in South Carolina, the release stated. As a strategic consultant, Leslie created plans for multiple federal agencies to increase climate resilience and developed community outreach strategies for Fortune 500 companies.

“Since 2021, Sustain SC has set the table for unlikely stakeholders to gather at the intersection of commerce and conservation to move our state forward. We’re proud of the statewide collaboration we’ve fostered and look forward to Leslie’s leadership driving sustainable solutions that will bolster economic growth across the state,” said Hope Lanier Freeman of BP, and Sustain SC board chair, in the release.

Skardon was appointed to be a commissioner on the City of Charleston’s Commission on Women and serves on the Charleston Chamber of Commerce Regional Policy Committee.

“Leslie embodies the mission of Sustain SC with deep roots in commerce and conservation, and I am confident she will continue to propel the organization forward in the direction we set out on three years ago,” Ethel Bunch, Sustain SC founder, sai din the release. “As the organization takes steps to implement The Roadmap to Sustain SC, we eagerly anticipate the new opportunities Leslie will bring to Sustain SC and its members.”