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Anton Gunn
CSP
RISING STAR PANELIST

Summary

Anton Gunn is an executive leadership expert who helps organizations fix broken culture, build trusted leadership, and retain top talent in uncertain times.

Bio

With a career spanning college athletics, healthcare, public service, and executive leadership, Anton is a sought-after strategic advisor to mission-driven leaders who want results without sacrificing integrity or purpose. As a former senior advisor to President Barack Obama and a C-suite healthcare executive, he delivers practical strategies that help leaders earn trust, strengthen teams, and lead through disruption. A proven trailblazer, Anton made South Carolina history as the youngest CEO of a statewide nonprofit advocacy organization. He later became the first African American elected to the South Carolina Legislature from his district. His impact in healthcare leadership earned him recognition as one of the Ten Most Influential Minority Executives in Healthcare. Anton brings more than 25 years of executive leadership and board experience. Currently, he serves as Chairman of the Columbia Metropolitan Airport Commission and provides deep expertise in governance, accountability, and executive decision-making. Global organizations like Pfizer, Microsoft, KPMG, T-Mobile, SHRM, HCA Healthcare, and Mercedes-Benz Vans trust Anton for his clear, courageous approach to leadership and culture. His presentations combine compelling storytelling, academic rigor, and actionable insights, leaving leaders inspired and equipped to drive measurable change. When he’s not transforming workplaces, Anton is a proud curator of 80s and 90s hip-hop culture, proving that leadership, like music, is about rhythm, authenticity, and impact.