News Summary
The recent CEO Connect event in Tampa showcased influential business leaders, led by keynote speaker Cindy Hesterman of Vistage Florida. Hosted by Tampa Bay Business and Wealth, the gathering highlighted growth opportunities in the region. Notable attendees included Oscar Horton of Sun State International Trucks and discussions around economic development initiatives were held, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of local entrepreneurship. The event fosters networking, knowledge sharing, and community engagement among Tampa Bay’s business community, with upcoming events set to continue this trend.
Tampa Bay—The May CEO Connect event hosted by Tampa Bay Business and Wealth spotlighted business leaders and growth opportunities in the region, featuring Cindy Hesterman, CEO of Vistage Florida, as the keynote speaker. This event, which took place at Five Labs in Tampa, was sponsored by M.E. Wilson, Hyde Park Capital, Holland & Knight, and Kuducom, highlighting the collaborative efforts of local businesses to strengthen the community.
In addition to Hesterman’s participation, other notable figures have been involved in recent CEO Connect events. Erika Sims, CEO of Sims HD and co-owner of Sims Crane & Equipment, participated in the January meeting, marking her second appearance of the year following an earlier event in May. As a third-generation member of the Sims family, she represents a legacy of entrepreneurship in the Tampa Bay area.
The February CEO Connect featured Mike and Leigh Harting, the co-owners of 3 Daughters Brewing, with sponsorship from Spartan Contracting, Closet Envy, and Home Safety Solutions. These gatherings facilitate networking among business leaders while providing insights into local growth trajectories and the entrepreneurial spirit of the region.
Key Highlights from May’s CEO Connect
During the May event, Hesterman shared her experiences and insights about effective leadership and business strategy. Organizations supporting this initiative, such as M.E. Wilson and Hyde Park Capital, are committed to fostering economic growth by connecting influential leaders and providing a platform for knowledge sharing. This collaborative approach is integral to driving innovation within the Tampa Bay business landscape.
Significant Local Contributions
One of the notable attendees at these events was Oscar Horton, CEO of Sun State International Trucks. Under Horton’s leadership, the dealership has transformed from a struggling business into a thriving enterprise with projected annual revenue of $250 million and six locations across Florida. His efforts to create a multi-generational African American business are further solidified by a $1 million pledge from his foundation to support the University of South Florida’s on-campus stadium.
Bridgette Bello, CEO and publisher of Tampa Bay Business and Wealth Magazine, conducted a live interview with Horton at the University of South Florida during which insights into his visionary approach and business principles were discussed, emphasizing the significance of community engagement and mentoring the next generation of leaders.
Future Prospects for Tampa Bay
The CEO Connect events have consistently focused on the promising outlook for the Tampa Bay area. In addition to Horton’s initiatives, the announcement of The Landing—a $27 million private social club in the Two Rivers master-planned community in Zephyrhills—illustrates ongoing investments in local infrastructure. Furthermore, golf tourism will receive a boost as The Concession Golf Club in Bradenton prepares to host the Senior PGA Championship from 2026 to 2028, drawing more visitors to the region.
Another exciting development is the planned initial public offering (IPO) by Tampa-based Slide Insurance as it enters its third year of operations, signaling growth and expanding opportunities in the insurance sector.
Role of Tampa Bay Business & Wealth
Tampa Bay Business & Wealth Magazine plays an essential role in documenting and analyzing the local business climate. The magazine extensively covers significant topics such as angel investing, venture capital, private equity, and hedge funds shaping the region’s economic landscape. By connecting business leaders in the area, the magazine fosters a community committed to nurturing entrepreneurship and innovation.
The upcoming CEO Connect events promise to continue this trend, featuring influential leaders like Shirl Penney of Dynasty Financial Partners, underscoring the commitment to creating dialogue and collaboration among Tampa Bay’s business community.
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Additional Resources
- Cindy Hesterman at CEO Connect
- Wikipedia: Leadership
- Erika Sims at CEO Connect Recap
- Google Search: Business Strategy
- Oscar Horton at CEO Connect
- Google Scholar: Entrepreneurship
- Hartings of 3 Daughters Brewing at CEO Connect
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Business Leadership
- Shirl Penney at CEO Connect
- Google News: Entrepreneurship in Tampa Bay
