Dave Shepp, The Southern Group, Retires from CFDC Board After Six Years of Service
Dave Shepp joined the Central Florida Development Council (CFDC) Board in 2019. He went on to serve as Chair of the Competitiveness & Advocacy Committee and in leadership roles on the Executive Committee before being named Chair of the Board in October 2024.
Shepp is a partner at The Southern Group, a statewide lobbying firm. Through his years as a lobbyist, Shepp has developed a deep understanding of Polk County’s needs, as well as the people and resources that can help address them.
His specialized expertise has had a significant impact on the CFDC.
“Dave has an innate way of connecting the dots between the projects that are affecting our state and helping us look ahead to the next iteration of what we need to be considering as an organization,” said Sean Malott, President and CEO of the Central Florida Development Council.
A Well-Rounded Legacy
Shepp’s peers describe him as a multifaceted leader who empowered the Board to make effective decisions. Former Board Chair Bart Allen praised Shepp’s ability to tackle challenges and help find solutions.
“Dave is a very strong and steadfast leader. He is very thoughtful, and you see that in his leadership style,” said Maggie Mariucci, a past Board Chair.
Outgoing Chair Emery Smith also praised Shepp’s leadership. “Dave always provides valuable insight. Having someone who is so involved in state and local issues has been a real asset to the CFDC and to the Board,” said Smith.
Dave always provides valuable insight. Having someone who is so involved in state and local issues has been a real asset to the CFDC and to the Board.
Emery Smith,
Immediate Past Chair,
Ben Hill Griffin, Inc.
Looking back on his time with the Board, Shepp emphasized the importance of collaboration.
“During my six years on the Board, we sought to work hand in hand with our EDC partners around the county to attract businesses together. That sense of cooperation has led to some meaningful successes for Polk County and its citizens,” said Shepp.
Shepp’s Highlights Through the Years
Among the highlights of his time with the Board, Shepp pointed to the annual Leadership Mission, a multi-day trip designed to strengthen regional partnerships, explore innovative economic development strategies, and give Polk County leaders a behind-the-scenes look at economic development and growth initiatives in other communities. Shepp described the event as extremely informative and a “great bonding opportunity for CFDC members.”
He also spoke about the impact of witnessing a new era of technology emerge in Polk County.
“It has been really cool to have a front-row seat to watch new, innovative technologies and projects choose Polk County as their home base,” he shared.
Encouragement for an Evolving Polk
The only constant is change, and that has certainly been true for Polk County. While citrus, cattle and phosphate remain important parts of the county’s economic foundation, new industries and opportunities continue to shape its economic future. As he considers the future, Shepp doesn’t expect that pace of change to slow. He also offered encouragement to the 26|27 leadership team.
“There are some truly momentous changes on the horizon for Polk County,” he said. “A new administration in Tallahassee, coupled with a leadership change in county staff and emerging technologies, will present both challenges and opportunities for our community. I know our Board is prepared to address these issues head-on and achieve great results.”
Reflecting on his time with the CFDC, Dave shared, “It has truly been an honor to serve on the CFDC Board. The dynamic group of professionals I have had the pleasure of working with each brings a unique perspective on emerging trends and opportunities to enhance Polk County’s future.”
It has truly been an honor to serve on the CFDC Board. The dynamic group of professionals I have had the pleasure of working with each brings a unique perspective on emerging trends and opportunities to enhance Polk County’s future.
Dave Shepp,
The Southern Group
As Dave Shepp leaves the CFDC Board of Directors, his impact on the organization and the Polk County community will extend well beyond his six years of service. His experience, forward-thinking perspective, and willingness to embrace challenges have helped strengthen the CFDC and its work on behalf of the community.
“Simply put, Dave has left the CFDC in a much better place than it was before he got involved,” said Bart Allen. His years of service have left a lasting mark on the organization.
