Julie Kunkle

Julie Kunkle was promoted to Global Business Development Director in January 2026. In this role, Kunkle will lead the department’s international and domestic recruitment efforts.

A senior leader with nearly 30 years of experience spanning the public and private sectors, Kunkle’s career has been rooted in business development, strategy and organizational leadership during periods of significant market and industry transformation. She joined the S.C. Commerce team in 2020, most recently serving as deputy director in the Business Services division, where her work focused on strengthening the state’s advancement, innovation and competitiveness.

Julie began her career in sales and marketing with nationally recognized organizations including Unilever and Gannett, then moved into the technology sector during the early internet era. At AOL, she held senior roles in sales strategy, account management and program leadership, translating emerging platforms into scalable commercial strategies. 

In the public sector, Julie has led statewide initiatives designed to strengthen South Carolina’s innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem, working across government, industry, higher education and nonprofit partners. Her experience bridges traditional economic development and innovation-driven growth, aligning institutions, resources and strategy to produce sustained impact.

Known for her ability to anticipate emerging opportunities and bring clarity across complex environments, Julie brings a collaborative, forward-looking perspective shaped by experience across industries with a consistent emphasis on long-term competitiveness and execution.

Julie resides in Irmo with her family.