Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningInnovationNews

Clearwater Launches New Year with Engaging CEO Connect Event

Participants engaging at the Clearwater January CEO Connect Event.

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News Summary

The January CEO Connect event in Clearwater, hosted by Tampa Bay Business and Wealth, featured CEO Erika Sims. The event aimed at fostering community collaboration was held in TBBW’s new office, highlighting local business growth and leadership. Sponsors included Fallston Group, The William Stanley CFO Group, and BankUnited. Future leaders were also spotlighted as the area gears up for significant developments, including the MICHELIN Guide recognition and the Delta Air Lines project at Tampa International Airport.

Clearwater Kicks Off the New Year with Dynamic CEO Connect Event

Clearwater is buzzing with excitement as Tampa Bay Business and Wealth (TBBW) launched its January CEO Connect event featuring the incredible Erika Sims. As the CEO of Sims HD and co-owner of Sims Crane & Equipment, Erika brought an enthusiastic spark to the gathering! With a perfect blend of inspiration and insight, she held the attention of local business leaders, reinforcing the power of community and collaboration.

A Warm Welcome in a New Space

This month’s event found its new home in TBBW’s sparkling office located in the Mercury Insurance building, a sign of growth and a fresh start for the organization. As business aficionados gathered—thanks to a friendly atmosphere and engaging discussions—its setting provided the ideal backdrop for forging new connections. To spice up the memories of the day, the talented Tacy Briggs Troncoso was on hand to capture the moments through her photography.

Sponsorship Support

It’s worth noting that the event wouldn’t have been the same without the generous sponsorship from Fallston Group, The William Stanley CFO Group, and BankUnited. Their commitment to supporting local leaders highlights the collaborative spirit that thrives within the Tampa Bay region.

Looking Back at Previous Connects

In October, TBBW enrichened its lineup with another engaging CEO Connect featuring the dynamic Kelly Boyd-Rivera, founder and CEO of Cadmus Dental Labs, who captivated guests at the University Club in Tampa. The September event featured Rob Elder, president of Elder Automotive Group, and reinforced the circle of leaders eager to share their expertise and experiences.

Up and Coming Leaders

The buzz continues with Micha Seal, who heads Watermelon Swim, a growing swim school network in Tampa Bay. Projections estimate that the company will surpass an impressive $13 million in revenue by 2024! Micha’s presence at the earlier CEO Connect events underlines the significance of nurturing emerging leaders in our business community.

Exciting Developments on the Horizon

And that’s not all! St. Pete-Clearwater recently made headlines by being included as one of three new destinations in the prestigious MICHELIN Guide’s 2025 restaurant selection. Culinary enthusiasts in the area are sure to be excited about this recognition and the influx of visitors it promises.

In transportation news, the Hillsborough County Aviation Authority has greenlit Delta Air Lines as the anchor tenant for the upcoming $1.5 billion Airside D project at Tampa International Airport, anticipated to open in 2028. These developments fortify Tampa Bay’s reputation as a region on the rise.

Leadership Changes in the Nonprofit Sector

Meanwhile, in the nonprofit sector, Tim Marks, president and CEO of Metropolitan Ministries, is set to step down later this year, marking a new chapter as he transitions out of a nearly two-decade leadership role. This change sets the stage for new innovations and perspectives within the organization.

Recognizing Excellence with Apogee Awards

TBBW remains committed to honoring leaders in the community through its newly launched Apogee Awards program. The inaugural awards ceremony is scheduled for September 18 at Armature Works, promising to be a night of celebration. Categories include Rising Star and Lifetime Achievement, with the overarching goal of recognizing distinguished c-suite leaders who make a significant impact in the Tampa Bay area.

Philanthropic Recognition

Additionally, the upcoming awards will spotlight the Philanthropists of the Year in categories such as Corporate/Business, Individual, Volunteer of the Year, Rising Star (40 and under), and Lifetime Achievement. An outside judging panel will assess nominees, ensuring transparency and fairness in selecting the deserving winners.

The local business scene is vibrant and thriving, and the TBBW events certainly play a vital role in connecting leaders, sharing knowledge, and setting the stage for a brighter future. Clearwater and the greater Tampa Bay area remain bustling hubs of opportunity, innovation, and growth!