Kirstin Skyrm

Sustainability Specialist

kskyrm@preferredbynature.org

Kirstin is responsible for providing advisory services to a portfolio of clients in different commodity sectors to support them in their goals to meet sustainability commitments and legal requirements, such as the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), and others.

Kirstin supports clients in establishing systems for responsible sourcing and associated activities through the development of policies and tools, supply chain engagement, risk assessment and risk mitigation activities, capacity building, training delivery, and more.

She began her career in the finance industry, first working in small business lending and later in financial advising. It was here that she was exposed to ESG and impact investing, and ultimately, where her passion for sustainable agriculture and food systems began to grow. Kirstin eventually attended graduate school to pursue a career in sustainable food supply chains, intending to use her business and financial skills to help companies act on sustainability commitments.

Throughout graduate school and beyond, her work and research has centred on sustainable food supply chains, with a specific focus on climate impact commodities. Kirstin holds a bachelor’s degree in finance from George Mason University, a master’s degree in agriculture, food, and environment from Tufts University, and is a G.A.R.P. Sustainability and Climate Risk certificate holder.

Kirstin joined Preferred by Nature in 2023.

"Climate change and the environmental crisis are no longer future concerns. Their impacts are seen around the globe, and the urgency with which we must address them grows greater every day. For that reason, I feel so privileged to work alongside the businesses, organisations, and technical experts who are implementing tangible, sustainable solutions to address these challenges, and doing so in a way that emphasizes the creation of positive impacts in local communities."

Skills at a glance