Emery Smith, Ben Hill Griffin, Inc., Reflects on Year of Leadership as CFDC Board Chair
Smith’s decades of experience with Ben Hill Griffin, Inc. (BHG), coupled with his years of service on the CFDC Board of Directors, grounded his year as Chair in a steadfast commitment to the Polk County community.
Smith concluded his year as Chair of the organization with the change of the fiscal year in October.
“Emery’s steady hand, calm leadership, and deep commitment to Polk County’s economic future have made a meaningful difference – not only to this organization, but also to the broader community we serve,” said Sean Malott, President and CEO of the Central Florida Development Council.
About Emery Smith
Smith has worked with BHG for nearly 30 years. His passion for citrus can be traced back to his father, who moved to Frostproof in the 1980s after the devastating freezes destroyed much of the citrus crop north of Polk County. He attended Florida Southern College in Lakeland, Florida, where he earned a degree in citrus business before launching his career with BHG. He currently serves as Executive Vice President.
Smith believes his role at BHG provided valuable perspective during his tenure as CFDC Board Chair.
“[At BHG] I have been able to be a part of development, property management, rezoning and other projects that help me understand what companies are looking for and need to do as they evaluate establishing in our community,” he said.
Serving with the CFDC
Smith has been on the Board of Directors for a number of years. When asked what stands out most about his time with the CFDC, he reflected on the Central Florida Innovation District, which leverages the strength of anchor institutions Florida Polytechnic University and SunTrax to drive the future of innovation and technology.
“The advancements that are being made in the Innovation District are quite evident. This is not the result of one single project or group, but the efforts made by many over many years,” he shared.
The advancements that are being made in the Innovation District are quite evident. This is not the result of one single project or group, but the efforts made by many over many years
Emery Smith,
CFDC Immediate Past Chair
Smith has consistently advocated for a team-focused approach to leadership. When he stepped into the role of Chair in 2025, he stated, “The true strength comes from a very diverse board and investor membership. There are so many talented people who work in most aspects of the business community.”
Malott praised Smith for his impact on the organization.
“Emery led with vision, integrity, and an unwavering focus on collaboration. Whether navigating opportunities or addressing challenges, his leadership has helped move the CFDC forward with strength and purpose,” he said.
A Fulfilling Experience
Smith describes his experience as Board Chair as rewarding. He highlighted the opportunity to build relationships and work with others throughout the Polk County community as one of the most rewarding aspects of his experience.
He also voiced his appreciation for the CFDC team.
“Getting to work closely with the CFDC staff has been a real privilege,” said Smith. “This is a great team that has the best interests of the community at the heart of their work. They do much more than just working to bring quality businesses to our communities. They work to establish relationships in all that they do, and it is evident when you have the opportunity to work with them.”
Strengthening Polk by Building Connections
Smith also spoke about the impact of the people and companies he connected with through the CFDC. One of those people is Dave Shepp of The Southern Group, the CFDC’s Immediate Past Chair, who completed his final year on the Board of Directors this year.
Shepp described Smith’s leadership in three words: “strong, steady leadership.”
“Emery is focused and does not rattle easily (a vital quality for those in the citrus industry). He has greatly enhanced the Board by bringing the perspective of how Polk’s legacy agriculture and environmental communities can mesh with the growth that we are experiencing,” said Shepp.
As Smith passes the torch to incoming Board Chair Brandon Clark of The Ruthvens, his year of leadership reflects the collaborative spirit that drives the CFDC’s work. His perspective, shaped by decades in Polk County’s agricultural and business communities, reinforces the importance of bringing diverse voices together to guide the region’s growth. That shared commitment will remain essential as the CFDC continues working to strengthen Polk County’s economy and expand opportunities for its businesses and residents.
