Fifth Annual Global Trade & Investment Symposium in Macon

Jae Kim is President of The Southeast U.S. Korean Chamber of Commerce, with responsibilities to lead the organization. Also, as Board Director, he has responsibilities to organize board meetings to drive promotion and development of the organization’s mission and objectives, including management of membership, events, and activities.

He is Senior Manager at Aprio, LLP with 14 years of experience. He has expertise in bridging international relationships, with a focus on U.S.-Korea cross-border investments and economic ties. Prior to joining Aprio, LLP he had worked for Fortune 500 companies such as Deloitte, Roche, and Johnson & Johnson.

He graduated with a Masters Science in Accounting from Indiana University, Kelley School of Business, and a B.S. in Business Administration – Accounting from Butler University, Lacy School of Business. Born in Seoul, South Korea, he lived and grew-up in Zimbabwe and South Africa for over 10 years as an Expat family as part of Daewoo Corporation.

David Hughes, serving as the General Manager of the US facility, plays a pivotal role in the company’s operations and growth in the American market. With a wealth of experience and expertise, David oversees the day-to-day activities of the US branch, ensuring a seamless connection between the company’s global vision and its local operations. His dedication to customer service and innovation aligns perfectly with Dinex Emission’s core values, contributing to the company’s reputation for exceptional performance and reliability.

As the US facility continues to expand and drive the company’s revenue growth, David’s leadership and commitment are instrumental in achieving this vision while maintaining a strong focus on environmental responsibility and compliance with emission standards.

Christy Plott brings a heartfelt dedication to conservation and a keen entrepreneurial mindset to the exotic leather industry. As a partner and creative director at American Tanning and Leather, she contributes to the family business’s growth and success, now in its fifth generation. The company, under her guidance, has been recognized among the University of Georgia’s top 100 fastest growing Bulldog Businesses, reflecting its steady development and international reach in leather exports and trade show participation.

Christy’s educational journey includes an MBA from Wesleyan College, where she graduated Summa cum laude, and a bachelor’s degree in International Business from the University of Georgia, leading to her inclusion in UGA’s Top 40 Under 40 Alumni list. She continues to stay connected with the university community as a member of the Alumni Board of Directors.

In her professional life, Christy holds roles on the boards of the International Crocodilian Farmers Association and the Natural Fibers Alliance, where she contributes insights toward more sustainable practices. As a member of the Accessories Council of New York, she advocates for the mindful conservation and use of alligators and crocodiles.

Christy also applies her expertise in crocodilian conservation as the Industry Vice Chair for the IUCN Crocodile Specialist Group. Additionally, she works as a consultant for the CITES treaty and represents the alligator industry for the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Her commitment to wildlife conservation is further demonstrated through her involvement with Blood Origins, a nonprofit organization focused on these efforts.

Outside her professional commitments, Christy enjoys the simplicity and beauty of camping and outdoor activities. She resides in Weatherford, Texas, and Griffin, Georgia, with her fiancé, Trey Gilmore, who is the Men’s Design Director at Lucchese Boot.