About Charleston Leaders
Charleston Leaders goal is to connect professionals in the Charleston metro area to create business, community and individual success. Our intent is to develop programming and opportunities that complement learning for leaders of all ages. We create yearly opportunities that engage leaders, inform leaders and develop leaders.We also offer volunteer, committee and leadership opportunities.
Why join Charleston Leaders?
Charleston Leaders is a collective group of business leaders in the Charleston Region that engage with one another to foster future leaders. We develop relationships, support our youth leaders and harness the knowledge we gain from each other to better our community. Join us to offer your knowledge and support as well.
Our Leadership Team
Ruthann Kelly Hipps
Founder and Executive Director
Ruthann Kelly Hipps is the Founder and Executive Director of Charleston Leaders. She has over 25 years experience in sales and relationship management. She was a Sales Manager in the advertising department of The Post and Courier for 15 years. She was also the Senior Director of Sponsorship Sales forThe Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce prior to founding Charleston Leaders.
Tim Rogers
Board President
Tim Rogers, Board President, Managing Director Charleston Stage, is Results-Driven Leadership Veteran Skilled in Business Growth, Customer Delight, and Revenue Surge. Expertly steering successful sales teams, crafting and executing sales strategies, and consistently propelling organizations to new heights. With two decades of dedicated service, I bring a proven track record of orchestrating dynamic business development initiatives, cultivating customer satisfaction, and architecting strategic pathways to revenue expansion. My leadership ethos is rooted in fostering a culture of excellence, driving teams to exceed targets, and delivering tangible results that speak to the bottom line.
Trischia Khouri
CEO and Founder of KhouriGroup
Trischia Khouri is the visionary CEO and Founder of KhouriGroup, Emerging Technology Advisors, a firm specializing in the ABCs – AI, Blockchain, and Cybersecurity. With a rich background spanning over two decades, Trischia is a seasoned technologist, known for her deep expertise in software development and project leadership. Her career is distinguished by her exceptional ability to deliver complex software projects, adhering strictly to timelines and budget constraints.
Kent Floyd
Board Member
Kent Floyd is a seasoned professional in the HVAC industry with over two decades of experience. Starting as a residential service technician in Colorado in 1998, Kent
Floyd quickly excelled in the field and was promoted to a sales position in 2000. In this role, Kent Floyd was responsible for estimating, selling, and managing retrofit projects, gaining expertise in delivering HVAC solutions to residential customers.
Michael Renault
Board Member
Michael Renault. I am an experienced commercial banker with over 21 years in the industry. I work with businesses to identify and implement the appropriate banking products and services to help achieve successful results. I approach each day with a passion for building relationships and helping people.
Jennifer Baez
Board Member
Jennifer Baez is a High performance, results-driven, Culture and people expert with skills in Project Management. Highly successful in demonstrating and growing staff and leadership, integrity-driven work ethic, and communication with individuals from the public and private sectors. Proven track record for implementing systems and processes to increase productivity, and achievement, and create a positive work culture climate. Distinguished record in understanding stakeholder requirements and delivering business goals stamped with a stellar blend of on-time and on-budget performance.
Donna D’Amato
Board Member
Donna D’Amato is the owner of Intercoastal Consulting Services, and Director of Finance for Our Lady of Mercy Community Outreach. Accomplished, Finance and Accounting executive with a proven record of managing financial affairs, developing and implementing financial and operational controls in non-profit organizations, biotechnology companies and professional service firms.
Financial and Strategic Planner with a focus on hands-on day to day accounting operations, audit, compliance, budget development and management. Passionate about providing excellent customer service to internal and external stakeholders.
Scott Garcia
Board Member
Scott Garcia, Sr VP- United Community Bank. United Community is a Regional Financial Institution located in 6 states with the home office located in Greenville, SC. Scott has been with United Community for 20 yrs. and has over 30 yrs. of experience in the financial industry. His focus remains on building banking relationships throughout the Tri-County area and continues to assist businesses with their financial needs. He is a Charleston native and a graduate of The Citadel, SC Banking School and LSU Graduate School of Banking. Scott also serves on the Board for Kay Phillips Child Advocacy Center, Member of the Rotary Club of Daniel Island, Charleston Citadel Club and a proud Veteran of our Armed Services. Scott is married to Christine and they have four children. He is an avid cyclist and enjoys everything outdoors
Christine Marley
Board Member
Christine Marley- Co owner, BIGGBY Coffee, CEO In-Charleston Branding Brand Relations + Growth Strategist — High-Touch ambassador specializing in visibility and curating experiential initiatives that drive unique lead generation solutions; elevating your brand + partnerships + bottom line.
Avery Unger
Board Member
Avery Unger- Explore Charleston
Katie Henderson
Board Member
Katie Henderson, President, Dunhill Staffing. President of Charleston’s Choice Award-Winning Staffing Agency. Named to Charleston’s 40-Under-40. Over 20 years connecting talented people with great companies. Engaged in our region through multiple board positions and volunteer roles. Graduate of Clemson University – Go Tigers!