SC Housing executive director to step down

SC Housing Executive Director Richard Hutto will retire at the start of the new year, ending nearly four decades of service in public finance, community development and affordable housing. Hutto’s final day will be Jan. 2.

With a more than 30-year tenure at SC Housing, Hutto leaves a long and impactful portfolio of accomplishments that spans leadership roles from every corner of the agency, from bond financing and operational oversight to major policy initiatives, a news release stated. His career reflects a steady commitment to the guiding belief that safe, affordable housing opens the door to opportunity.

That belief guided his return to the agency in 2023. At a time when the organization faced significant transitions, Hutto stepped in, offering stability, institutional knowledge and a clear direction for the work ahead. Colleagues credit him with not just navigating the agency through uncertain times, but strengthening its foundation for years to come, the release stated.

SC Housing Board Chairman Todd Latiff said Hutto’s leadership has been nothing short of transformative.

“Richard stepped into this role at a crucial moment and helped steer the agency with transparency, strategy and an honest dedication to the mission,” Latiff said in the release. “He has never viewed this job as merely work. He sees it as a responsibility to the people of this state. His leadership has made a difference for thousands of families, and it will continue to shape this agency long after his retirement.”

For Hutto, the impact on the lives of families and individuals alike, has always been the heart of the mission.

As he prepares to retire, the agency is on solid footing, the release stated. SC Housing is financially strong, program operations are stable and the organization enters 2026 with clear momentum. Robert Macdonald, SC Housing’s current chief of staff, will step into the executive director role following Hutto’s retirement and will carry that work forward.

The SC Housing community has expressed deep appreciation for Hutto’s contributions, recognizing both the achievements and the mindset he leaves behind: that affordable housing is not simply a need, but a foundation that helps families and communities thrive, the release stated.

His legacy, built on financial stewardship, operational clarity and a sincere belief in the agency’s mission, will continue to shape SC Housing’s work well into the future, the release stated.