Leading Southface’s Next Chapter: A Conversation with Nathan Bessette
As Southface enters its next chapter, Interim Executive Director Nathan Bessette brings a rare combination of engineering expertise, innovation leadership, and a lifelong commitment to sustainability. His path, shaped by early exposure to environmental stewardship, technical problem-solving, and a passion for high-impact design, aligns closely with Southface’s mission to connect sustainability with measurable, real-world value.
In this conversation, Bessette reflects on the experiences that shaped his perspective, what excites him most about leading the organization, and where he sees the greatest opportunities to expand Southface’s influence across Atlanta and the Southeast.
Q: How long have you been working in the sustainability space and what led you to Southface?
Bessette: I’ve been drawn to sustainability for as long as I can remember. I was born in Boulder, Colorado, where environmental stewardship is woven into the culture, and later grew up in South Carolina, which deepened my appreciation for conservation. Combined with years in the Boy Scouts — where I earned my Eagle Scout rank — those early experiences shaped both a connection to the outdoors and a lasting sense of environmental responsibility.
At the same time, I developed an interest in architecture. A summer program at Clemson University helped me realize that while I admired design, my strengths were better suited to the engineering systems that make buildings perform efficiently. That insight led me to pursue mechanical engineering, focusing on practical, high-impact solutions.
I first encountered Southface during a tour of their eco-office. The integration of sustainability, architecture, and engineering immediately resonated with me. When the opportunity to join the organization arose during COVID, it felt like a natural alignment of values and expertise.
Q: Beyond your upbringing, what makes you passionate about working in sustainability?
Bessette: What inspires me most is how tangible the impact is. Sustainable buildings aren’t just abstract concepts, you can see and measure the difference they make. Many people associate sustainability with planting trees or reducing emissions, which are essential efforts, but buildings represent one of the most enduring opportunities for change. They last for decades, even generations. Decisions made today continue delivering benefits far into the future—through energy efficiency, improved occupant health, and reduced environmental impact.
Q: What excites you most about stepping into this leadership role?
Bessette: The team at Southface excites me most. We’re fortunate to have talented architects, engineers, and sustainability professionals who bring both deep expertise and a shared sense of purpose. Being part of that collective effort is energizing.
Southface’s legacy is equally inspiring. As we approach our 50th anniversary, it’s remarkable to reflect on decades of impact across the Southeast and beyond. Stepping into this role means building responsibly on that momentum.
A priority for me is reinforcing the values that guide our work; trust, collaboration, stewardship, and results-oriented thinking. These principles shape our partnerships and help navigate complex challenges. Trust is what has helped us sustain long-term relationships through shifting political and economic landscapes. Strengthening that foundation is essential for the future.
Q: Sustainability is relevant almost everywhere. What makes Southface especially important for Atlanta, Georgia, and the Southeast?
Bessette: Sustainability doesn’t rise to the top on its own, it requires evidence-based advocacy. Southface excels at demonstrating real return on investment, translating environmental responsibility into practical value.
As affordability becomes central in construction and development across the region, we show how sustainable strategies drive long-term savings, resilience, and performance. Backed by case studies and measurable outcomes, we help local communities understand that sustainability isn’t an added cost, it’s a smart investment.
Q: Where do you see the greatest opportunity for Southface to deepen its impact and lead in the sustainability space?
Bessette: Communication and collaboration are key opportunities. We have strong data showing the benefits of sustainable practices. Translating that information into clear, actionable messaging empowers partners to make informed decisions. At the same time, relationship-building is critical. Engaging organizations, funders, and collaborators — even those who don’t initially prioritize sustainability — helps demonstrate how today’s actions shape long-term outcomes.
Q: Outside of work, what’s one thing that helps you recharge?
Bessette: Being outdoors is essential for me. Whether it’s hiking, walking, or spending time in nature, it’s how I reset. My wife and I live near Emory, so we often visit Lullwater Preserve — it’s especially meaningful because I proposed there.
We also love exploring Atlanta, trying restaurants, and going to comedy shows. Travel is another outlet, and wherever we go, we always make time for hiking. Staying connected to the outdoors keeps me grounded and reinforces why this work matters.
Q: What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
Bessette: I’m a big Formula 1 fan, which surprises some people given my focus on sustainability. I got into it during college and later through colleagues, and I’ve been hooked ever since. I’ve attended races in Monaco and Austin, and I’m a longtime Ferrari and Charles Leclerc supporter. For me, it’s a reminder that engineering, performance, and innovation can be appreciated in many forms.
Check out the article from SaportaReport to read more: James Marlow of Southface stepping down; Nathan Bessette named interim – SaportaReport