Kim Thayer grew up on her grandpa’s farm in Haiku, Maui where she developed a passion for trees and native forests. Kim holds an Honors degree in Anthropology from James Cook University. She began her career in planning with Munekiyo Hiraga before spending over a decade at the Mauna Kahalawai Watershed Partnership, leading public education, and stewardship programs to protect Maui’s native ecosystems. Now at SR Partners, Kim blends her project management and community engagement skills to lead projects such as the Maui Urban Forest Management Plan and Maui Economic Recovery Commission. She previously led the Maui County Arborist Committee, currently chairs the Maui Planning Commission, and serves on the board of Ke Kula O Piilani. Kim was named to Pacific Business News’ 40 Under 40 in 2022 and Hawaiʻi Business Magazine’s 20 for the Next 20 in 2024. She is the proud mom of two children.