Our Team

Tim Giuliani is a national leader in growing cities that deliver economic growth. His approach is centered on the powerful concept that making investments to build a place where people want to live and visit will attract companies that people want to work for.  As President and CEO of the Orlando Economic Partnership, his leadership has helped attract over 30,000 new jobs, $3.6 billion in capital investment, and $3.3 billion in annual payroll. Tim’s collaborative work with elected, higher education, and private sector leaders led to the investment of $500 million into the Florida semiconductor cluster. Tim’s work to advance broad-based prosperity is focused on cultivating civic leadership and bringing those leaders together to align around the long-term opportunities and challenges that face metro communities. 

Danielle Permenter serves as the chief operating officer at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where she leads investor relations and community development initiatives, including the organization’s signature events and leadership programming. 

Her impact across the Central Florida region has been recognized through numerous honors, including being named to the Orlando Business Journal’s 2023 40 Under 40, the Association of Chambers of Commerce Executive’s 2025 40 Under 40, and receiving the Emerging Leader Award from the Florida Executive Women’s Council. 

Deeply committed to enriching civic life and the arts, Danielle serves on the executive committee for United Arts of Central Florida. A proud Orlando native, she holds a degree from Florida State University, where she met her husband, Tadd, and finds her greatest joy outside the office as a proud boy mom to Shep and Avery, her daily reminders to lead with heart and humor. 

Joe Battista serves as the Vice President of Finance for the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP), where he oversees all financial, accounting, and administrative operations. As part of the executive leadership team, he supports the organization’s long-term financial strategy and its efforts to drive economic growth across Central Florida.

Before joining OEP, Joe spent more than two decades in senior leadership roles in higher education and the private sector, most recently as Vice President for Workforce, Career, and Professional Education at Valencia College. He led workforce programs serving over 20,000 students, expanded international enrollment, launched the Centers for Accelerated Training, and worked closely with industry partners to align programs with employer needs.

Joe currently serves on the CareerSource Central Florida board and formerly served on the Osceola County/BRIDG Build Back Better Board and the NSF Florida Semiconductor Engine Governance Board. He was appointed by the Governor to the Commission for Independent Education and holds both an MBA in Finance and a Bachelor’s in Accounting from St. Joseph’s University.

Laureen Martinez serves as senior vice president of communications and marketing, where she is responsible for the Orlando Economic Partnership’s (OEP) overall strategy that positions the region as a national leader in advancing Broad-based Prosperity. She manages the regional business brand, “Orlando. Unbelievably Real” an initiative, in partnership with Visit Orlando, aimed at building Orlando’s reputation as a premier destination from a quality of life, business and leisure perspective. 

Laureen has more than 25 years of experience in journalism and communications and holds her accreditation of public relations (APR), which signifies a high level of professional experience, competence and ethical standards.  

Prior to joining the OEP, she helped develop and implement strategic internal and external communications campaigns for Orange County Government as the Assistant Manager of Communications.  Laureen also worked as the chief public relations officer for the American Red Cross Mid-Florida Region. Laureen managed government and community outreach, oversaw the creation of the Spanish language website, and introduced social media planning as part of the overall communications strategy for the region. In 2009, Laureen was selected to be a member of the American Red Cross Advanced Public Affairs Team, which deploys to disasters across the country. In 2011, she earned recognition for her work in crisis communication during the relief effort that brought thousands of survivors of the Haiti earthquake to Orlando and Sanford when she was awarded the Florida Public Relations Association Image Award by the Orlando Area Chapter of FPRA.   

Laureen began her career as a television journalist and covered stories such as the Beltway Sniper shootings in the Greater Washington, D.C. area, the attacks of 9/11, the aftermath of the Virginia Tech massacre, and she has interviewed personalities of note including President Jimmy Carter. She’s been recognized with top honors for her coverage of breaking news by the Virginia Associated Press and was part of a team that received an Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence.   

Bob O’Malley serves as the senior vice president of government affairs for the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP), where he leads efforts to strengthen relationships between business and government leaders and works to advance public policies that support economic growth in Central Florida. 

Before joining the OEP, Bob led Right Track Public Affairs, representing transportation industry clients. He played a key role in advancing the Sunshine Corridor project, which will expand SunRail service from Orlando International Airport to the Orange County Convention Center and Orlando’s theme parks. His career includes leadership roles at MetroPlan Orlando, CSX Transportation, and Brightline Trains. He also serves as a City Commissioner for Altamonte Springs. 

Bob holds both a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the University of Central Florida. He is also a graduate of Leadership Orlando Class 54, Leadership Florida Class 30, and the Senior Executives in State and Local Government program at the Harvard Kennedy School. 

Destin Wells serves as the senior vice president of economic development at the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP).  Prior to his time at the OEP, Destin led the state of Florida’s economic development team at Enterprise Florida, where he garnered a holistic approach to advancing economic development goals by leveraging resources and working with partners in way he describes as “fiercely collaborative.”  Between the state and local economic development work, Destin has successfully facilitated projects that generated more than 15,000 jobs and $2.4 billion in Capital Investment.    

Committed to economic development and the impact on the individual and their ability to provide for their family, Destin brings a balance of relational and data-driven approaches to building strategy and affecting outcomes.  Prior to his time in economic development, Destin was a consultant for small businesses, focusing on export marketing for the Small Business Development Center.    

Destin graduated from the University of Central Florida with Bachelor of Science in Political Science and a master’s in business administration.    

Juanita “Jenny” Cruz serves as senior director of employee engagement, performance management and culture building at Orlando Economic Partnership. In this role, she leads strategic initiatives that foster a high-performing, inclusive, and values-driven workplace culture. 

With more than 25 years of experience, she is responsible for compliance, payroll, benefits, talent acquisition, performance management, training, organizational development, and employee engagement. 

Roseanne Huyler-Carter serves as director of board relations at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where she supports the organization’s executive leadership and board of directors. With over a decade of experience supporting CEOs, senior executives, and corporate boards. 

In her role, Roseanne manages board scheduling, meeting preparation, and governance practices to ensure efficient operations aligned with board priorities. Roseanne has led initiatives that improve board effectiveness and organizational transparency. She is a trusted advisor known for navigating complex executive environments and fostering collaboration. 

Certified as an Executive Assistant and paralegal, Roseanne is continuing her education at Keiser University. She combines industry knowledge and experience to provide strategic and administrative support in fast-paced settings. 

Natasha Hosein serves as an accountant at the Orlando Economic Partnership, managing financial reporting and ensuring accurate, efficient accounting processes. With over seven years at the Partnership and prior experience as an Auditor for the City of New York, she brings strong expertise in financial stewardship. 

Natasha earned her Bachelor’s degree in accounting from Queens College in New York. Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, she has called Florida home for the past 10 years. Outside of work, she is active in her church, serving as an usher and volunteering with the kids’ ministry. 

Donna Ketchum serves as the office navigator at the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP), where she oversees daily office operations and is the main contact for internal teams, visitors, and stakeholders. With experience in healthcare, aviation, and business operations, Donna focuses on operational efficiency, customer service, and teamwork. 

At the OEP, she coordinates organizational activities, supports events, and maintains a professional and efficient workplace. Known for her  people-first approach, Donna ensures smooth administration and positive interactions. 

Casey Evans serves as the vice president of economic development at the Orlando Economic Partnership, overseeing project management and strategic initiatives to drive regional growth. Casey focuses on strengthening the region’s industrial sector, particularly semiconductors and advanced manufacturing, as well as supporting international economic development strategies. 

In 2023, Casey was named one of Development Counsellors International’s (DCI) 40 Under 40 for her contributions to economic development. She serves on the boards of the Manufacturing Association of Central Florida, the Florida Photonics Cluster, the National Center for Simulation, Team Orlando, and the British American Business Council. She is also on the steering committee for NextGen Leaders with the Industrial Asset Management Council (IAMC), a member of the Florida Advisory Council for the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, and oversees the Metro Orlando Defense Task Force, which works to grow and protect the region’s modeling, simulation, and training industry and military installations. 

Casey graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a B.A in Political Science. Casey has attained her Master Economic Development Practitioner (MEDP) Certification and is a distinguished Fellow with IAMC.  In her personal time, she enjoys traveling and being outdoors with her husband Thomas and their two children Riley and Parker. 

Tracy Garcia serves as senior director of economic development at the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP), where she leads initiatives focused on the industrial sectors of advanced manufacturing and clean technology. In this role, she also manages the Development Initiative for Regional Transformation (DIRT), a site readiness program designed to identify, assess, and prepare strategic sites to support business attraction and expansion throughout the region. 

She provides confidential support to companies considering relocation or expansion in Orange, Seminole, and Osceola counties and the City of Orlando, helping position the region as a competitive, innovation-driven business hub. 

Tracy holds an associate degree in Civil Engineering Technology from Spartanburg Technical College and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Southern Wesleyan University, graduating cum laude. She is a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) through the International Economic Development Council and a Master Economic Development Practitioner (MEDP), having completed the Advanced Economic Development Leadership Program as part of its Inaugural Class of 2018—a collaborative program facilitated by multiple universities. She lives in Central Florida with her husband, Ray, and is the proud mother of three adult children: Connor, Callie, and Lindsay. 

Jordan DeWitt serves as the director of strategic integration at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where he focuses on the organization’s policy efforts and drives strategic investments in sectors like semiconductors and transportation.

Jordan plays a key role within the Florida Semiconductor Engine, managing regional engagement and ecosystem growth. After the region won the Build Back Better Regional Challenge, Jordan helped launch the first semiconductor cluster with the Florida High Tech Corridor. He oversees its growth, partnerships, and progress tracking.

Jordan holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and a Master of Public Policy (MPP) from the University of Central Florida, where he is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in public affairs with a specialization in Community and Economic Development.

Derek Ephrem serves as an economic director at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where he leads initiatives that attract business investment, support international company expansions, and promotes the Orlando region as a premier destination for economic growth. He focuses on driving foreign direct investment and building long-term economic opportunities in Central Florida. 

Born and raised in Austin, Texas, Derek pursued his passion for economic development by earning a Bachelor of Science from California State University Long Beach. He has extensive experience in international business attraction and is recognized for his collaborative approach and market knowledge. His work helps position Orlando as a global hub for innovation, talent, and business growth. 

Jessica Wilson serves as a director of economic development at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where she focuses on business attraction, expansion, and innovation efforts to grow Orlando’s high-growth industries and promote inclusive economic opportunities. 

Her background spans technology, education, and community development. Before the Partnership, she was chief operating officer at Rogue Mobile, scaling the telecom startup and expanding into international markets. Her background also includes leadership roles at Bright & Quirky and VIPKid, where she managed large-scale digital education programs that reached millions of learners worldwide. 

Jessica holds a Master of Science in project management from the University of Essex, dual bachelor’s degrees in international studies and Spanish from Eckerd College and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). She serves on the board of Women in Tech & Entrepreneurship, leading community programs and advocating for equity in tech. With experience living and working across nine countries, she brings a global perspective to regional economic development. 

Abigail Wagner is an associate director on the economic development team with the Orlando Economic Partnership, where she leads initiatives focused on the region’s innovative technology and entertainment sectors. In her role, she supports businesses with relocation and expansion projects across Orange, Seminole, and Osceola counties, as well as the City of Orlando. 

Abigail works with government agencies and private sector partners to provide businesses with site selection support, workforce recruitment resources, incentive guidance, and local connections. She previously served as a Business Development Associate at Florida Commerce (formerly Enterprise Florida). 

Abigail holds her bachelor’s in economics from New College of Florida and minored in studio art with a focus on welding and woodworking.  

Pedro de Melo Rodrigues serves as coordinator of research and strategy at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where he supports the organization’s data-driven initiatives to advance regional economic growth, attract international investment, and inform strategic decision-making. In this role, he contributes to research projects that  insights for business leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders across Central Florida. 

Pedro contributes research that provides insights for business leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders in Central Florida. Fluent in Portuguese, English, and Spanish, he brings a global perspective and strong understanding of international markets. 

Pedro is a graduate of Rollins College, where he earned his degree in International Business and developed a strong foundation in cross-cultural communication, economics, and global strategy.  

Cassie Gunsolus serves as the logistics coordinator within the economic development team at the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP), where she manages administrative operations, stakeholder engagement, and event logistics, ensuring smooth execution of schedules, travel, briefings, and project or delegation visits. She also tracks departmental progress toward strategic goals. 

Prior to joining the OEP, Cassie held roles at Apex Systems, where she supported Fortune 500 IT clients in both administrative and recruiting functions, including reporting, onboarding, and event coordination. Her career began in early childhood education, where she served as assistant director of a learning center, leading staff operations and parent engagement programs. Cassie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Valdosta State University. 

Brooke Hill serves as the associate director of the Orlando Film Commission and chair of the Film Florida Film Commission Council. With a background in visual communication design, filmmaking, and fine art, she leads initiatives to attract and support film, television and digital media productions throughout Central Florida. In her role, she oversees permitting processes, location services, and the maintenance of regional production directories. 

Brooke graduated from Liberty University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies and a master’s degree in visual communication design. 

Katie Thomason serves as senior director of corporate engagement at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where she leads efforts to connect businesses with strategic opportunities that foster regional growth and innovation. 

Katie has over 15 years of experience in financial services, community engagement, and partnership development. She has led teams, managed multi-million-dollar budgets, and delivered initiatives that align business goals with community impact. Her strategic vision drives key partnerships and high-profile programs that boost brand visibility and growth. Katie excels at building stakeholder relationships, managing complex projects, and exceeding team goals. 

She holds an MBA with concentrations in Marketing and Management, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Business Administration, both from Rollins College. Katie is active in industry and community leadership and mentors’ talent in Central Florida. 

Greg Mason serves as director of corporate engagement for the Orlando Economic Partnership, working with our region’s business leaders to grow the Central Florida economy. 

With over 30 years of experience in corporate engagement, partnerships, fundraising, and asset management, Greg supports sectors like higher education, healthcare, and economic development.  

Originally from Ohio, Greg earned his bachelor’s degree from Baldwin Wallace University and a master’s degree in Sports Administration from Indiana University. His previous roles include serving as the director of fraternity and sorority life at the University of Central Florida, where he garnered multiple distinctions—including Advisor of the Year from the Southeastern Interfraternity Conference and the Distinguished Service Award from the Association of Fraternity Advisors, where he also served as vice president of membership. 

Greg received the Chuck Hummer Visionary Award for his long-term fundraising for Hope and Help’s Headdress Ball. He serves on several nonprofit boards, including the Mennello Museum of American Art, Gamma Sigma Alpha National Honorary Society (past Treasurer), and the Baldwin Wallace University Alumni Association. He is a Leadership Orlando graduate (Class 102). In his free time, Greg enjoys theme parks, sports, concerts, theater, tennis, and outdoor activities. 

Joe Horan serves as the director of corporate engagement at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where he connects decision-makers and business leaders in support of the organization’s mission to advance broad-based prosperity throughout Central Florida. 

Outside of his professional role, Joe enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling, and meeting new people. He earned his bachelor’s degree in hospitality from Lynn University, graduating cum laude. 

Coye McCabe serves as the corporate engagement coordinator at the Orlando Economic Partnership. Coye began his journey with the organization as an intern with the Orlando Film Commission before transitioning into his current role in early 2025.  

Coye is a graduate of the University of Central Florida, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in media production with a minor in business administration. Outside of the office, Coye enjoys exploring the outdoors, discovering new films, and spending quality time with his wife, Brooke.  

Neil Hamilton serves as vice president of research & strategy at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where he leads the organization’s research program in support of its mission to advance Broad-based Prosperity across the region. 

 From 2012 to 2017, he oversaw research activities for the Orlando Economic Development Commission, a predecessor to the Partnership, where he established a reputation for delivering high-impact, actionable intelligence. Before returning to Orlando in 2022, he served with Scottish Enterprise—Scotland’s national economic development agency—where he contributed to investment strategies and innovation-focused initiatives aimed at strengthening Scotland’s global economic position. 

Originally from Scotland, Neil holds a bachelor’s in economics from the University of Strathclyde and a graduate degree in business administration from the University of Florida.

Dr. Tammy Humphrey serves as senior director of talent development at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where she leads the organization’s workforce development strategy with a focus on skills-based hiring, upskilling, and talent alignment. 

With leadership experience in education and technology, she has a proven record of innovation and cross-sector collaboration. At IBM, she led the creation of AI-powered learning solutions and launched a blockchain-based credentialing network to improve workforce readiness and credential transparency. 

Her expertise spans product management, customer success, strategic consulting, and enterprise transformation. Passionate about lifelong learning and inclusive opportunity, Dr. Humphrey builds systems that connect education, technology, and industry to meet the region’s evolving workforce needs. 

Sara Reynolds serves as associate director of research & strategy at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where she leads data and research initiatives that inform business decisions, support strategic storytelling, and drive regional economic growth. 

She specializes in turning complex data into clear, actionable insights and develops tools to highlight Orlando’s economic strengths. Sara works across teams to ensure research is effectively used in initiatives shaping the region’s future. 

An Orlando native with international experience from living and studying in France, she combines local knowledge with a global perspective to deliver precise, high-impact projects. 

Grace Thompson serves as the associate director of government affairs at the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP), where she develops legislative strategies, manages government relationships, monitors policy issues, and advocates for the OEP’s priorities at the local, state, and federal levels. 

Before joining the OEP, Grace worked in government affairs at Orlando Health, focusing on local policy and government relations. She holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from SUNY Geneseo and a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the University of Central Florida.

Trent Goodin serves as creative director at the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP), where he leads the strategic creative direction for the organization’s marketing and branding efforts. He is the creative mind behind the launch of Orlando’s regional brand, Orlando. Unbelievably Real® and plays a key role in redefining the region’s global perception.  

Under Trent’s creative leadership, the OEP has earned national recognition, including the FDI Strategy Award for Best Campaign Slogan and the PRSA Silver Anvil Award for the #DoYourPartORL “Safer, Stronger, Together” campaign. In 2021, he was selected to lead the development and launch of the Orlando Regional Digital Twin—an immersive, interactive platform that debuted in 2022 and has been featured in major outlets such as Time, Bloomberg, SmartCities, VentureBeat, GlobeSt, and XR Today. 

A native of southern Missouri, Trent discovered his passion for art and storytelling at an early age. He earned a certification in graphic design from Waynesville Technical Academy in 2005 and relocated to Orlando in 2007 to pursue a creative career. Prior to joining the OEP in 2019, Trent spent over a decade leading creative teams at The Walt Disney Company, where he contributed to high-profile innovative projects including the launch of MyMagic+ and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. He continues to devote his time to creativity and the arts by serving on the Board of Directors for the Orlando Family Stage and as a member of the Central Florida chapter of AIGA.  

Trent lives in Ocoee, Florida, with his wife and son. In his free time, he enjoys spending time outdoors, playing tabletop games and walking his Australian Cattle Dog, Rosie, along the West Orange Trail. 

Justin Braun serves as the director of marketing and communications at the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP), where he focuses on the development and execution of high impact omnichannel campaigns that elevate the region’s profile and drive economic growth.  

With over a decade of experience in brand strategy, digital innovation, and strategic communications, Justin has earned national acclaim from organizations such as Fast Company, the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), the Florida Public Relations Association (FPRA), and the Brookings Institute Metropolitan Policy Program’s Inclusive Economic Indicators Lab.  

In addition to his role at the OEP, Justin is the co-founder and CEO of Winter Park Seltzer Company and the drummer for Orlando-based indie folk band Beemo. 

Justin holds an MBA in Marketing from the Crummer Graduate School of Business and a BA from Rollins College, graduating magna cum laude. He is a graduate of Leadership Orlando Class 101, serves on the Crummer Alumni Board, its Professional Development Committee, and Mentorship Program, and holds certifications in Transformational Leadership from Fortune and Sustainable Enterprise from INCAE Business School.

Jeanne Ford serves as the director of events at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where she leads the organization’s signature events strategy, aligning each experience with the Partnership’s mission and priorities while maximizing value for investors and stakeholders. 

With more than 45 years of experience in the events industry, she spent 21 years at Walt Disney World producing high-profile press events, conventions, VIP meetings, and special events across the property. Prior to that, she spent 17 years managing professional tennis tournaments nationwide, gaining extensive experience in large-scale event logistics and operations. 

A native Floridian, Jeanne has called Orlando home since 1996.  That is the year she made history as the first woman to manage boxing at an Olympic Games during the Centennial Olympic Games in Atlanta. Her passion for public relations and community engagement was ignited during her time at Florida State University, where she now serves as board chair for the College of Communication and Information Leadership Board. 

Lisa Winkelbauer serves as the executive director of Leadership Orlando at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where she has devoted nearly three decades to advancing leadership development and civic engagement throughout Central Florida. During the last 28 years, she has helped build Leadership Orlando into a leading regional program, now celebrating its 50th anniversary. 

Lisa also serves on the national board of the Association of Leadership Programs (ALP), contributing her expertise to the advancement of leadership initiatives nationwide. She began her career in event coordination, with the Detroit Pistons and The Walt Disney Company before joining the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce, which later became part of OEP.  

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations and Print Journalism from Troy University. 

Nathanael “Nate” Edmund serves as director of programs at the Orlando Economic Partnership , where he leads the development and execution of  initiatives that foster regional collaboration, leadership development, and business engagement across Central Florida. 

In his role, Nate oversees several  programs, including the Black Boardroom Leadership Institute (BBLI) and LEADForward Roundtables, and provides strategic support for Leadership Orlando—the largest community leadership program in the United States. He also leads the Executive Leadership Mission, a curated experience that brings together senior business and government leaders from the Orlando region to explore peer cities and gain insights into innovation, economic growth, and best practices. 

Lisa Addy serves as the production manager at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where she brings more than 30 years of experience in hospitality, marketing, and economic development. Lisa has been with the organization since 1997, leading the planning and execution of events that drive regional economic growth and community engagement. 

She previously worked at Universal Orlando, Sahara Hotel and Casino, and the Adventuredome at Circus Circus, gaining expertise in operations and executive support.  

Lisa holds a Bachelor of Science in Media Communications from Florida State University and an Associate of Arts in General Studies from Brevard College in North Carolina. 

Madeline Shields serves as the coordinator supporting the chief development officer as well as the programming, events, and corporate engagement teams at the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP). In her role, she helps drive meaningful connections between the business community and the Partnership’s mission through strategic events and relationship-building initiatives while delivering high-level administrative, logistical, and strategic project assistance. 

Madeline first joined the OEP as an intern with Leadership Orlando, and after just two months, she transitioned into a full-time role with the organization. Born and raised in Orlando, she is proud to contribute to her hometown’s growth. She is a graduate of Florida State University.

Laureen Martinez serves as senior vice president of communications, marketing and branding, where she is responsible for the Orlando Economic Partnership’s (OEP) overall strategy that positions the region as a national leader in advancing Broad-based Prosperity. She manages the regional business brand, “Orlando. Unbelievably Real” an initiative, in partnership with Visit Orlando, aimed at building Orlando’s reputation as a premier destination from a quality of life, business and leisure perspective. 

Laureen has more than 25 years of experience in journalism and communications and holds her accreditation of public relations (APR), which signifies a high level of professional experience, competence and ethical standards.  

Prior to joining the OEP, she helped develop and implement strategic internal and external communications campaigns for Orange County Government as the Assistant Manager of Communications.  Laureen also worked as the Chief Public Relations Officer for the American Red Cross Mid-Florida Region. Laureen managed government and community outreach, oversaw the creation of the Spanish language website, and introduced social media planning as part of the overall communications strategy for the region. In 2009, Laureen was selected to be a member of the American Red Cross Advanced Public Affairs Team, which deploys to disasters across the country. In 2011, she earned recognition for her work in crisis communication during the relief effort that brought thousands of survivors of the Haiti earthquake to Orlando and Sanford when she was awarded the Florida Public Relations Association Image Award by the Orlando Area Chapter of FPRA.   

Laureen began her career as a television journalist and covered stories such as the Beltway Sniper shootings in the Greater Washington, D.C. area, the attacks of 9/11, the aftermath of the Virginia Tech massacre, and she has interviewed personalities of note including President Jimmy Carter. She’s been recognized with top honors for her coverage of breaking news by the Virginia Associated Press and was part of a team that received an Edward R. Murrow Award for Excellence. 

Destin Wells serves as the senior vice president of economic development at the Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP).  Prior to his time at the OEP, Destin led the state of Florida’s economic development team at Enterprise Florida, where he garnered a holistic approach to advancing economic development goals by leveraging resources and working with partners in way he describes as “fiercely collaborative.”  Between the state and local economic development work, Destin has successfully facilitated projects that generated more than 15,000 jobs and $2.4 billion in Capital Investment.    

Committed to economic development and the impact on the individual and their ability to provide for their family, Destin brings a balance of relational and data-driven approaches to building strategy and affecting outcomes.  Prior to his time in economic development, Destin was a consultant for small businesses, focusing on export marketing for the Small Business Development Center.    

Destin graduated from the University of Central Florida with Bachelor of Science in Political Science and a master’s in business administration.    

Katie Thomason serves as senior director of corporate engagement at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where she leads efforts to connect businesses with strategic opportunities that foster regional growth and innovation. 

Katie has over 15 years of experience in financial services, community engagement, and partnership development. She has led teams, managed multi-million-dollar budgets, and delivered initiatives that align business goals with community impact. Her strategic vision drives key partnerships and high-profile programs that boost brand visibility and growth. Katie excels at building stakeholder relationships, managing complex projects, and exceeding team goals. 

She holds an MBA with concentrations in Marketing and Management, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Business Administration, both from Rollins College. Katie is active in industry and community leadership and mentors’ talent in Central Florida. 

Lisa Winkelbauer serves as the executive director of Leadership Orlando at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where she has devoted nearly three decades to advancing leadership development and civic engagement throughout Central Florida. During the last 28 years, she has helped build Leadership Orlando into a leading regional program, now celebrating its 50th anniversary. 

Lisa also serves on the national board of the Association of Leadership Programs (ALP), contributing her expertise to the advancement of leadership initiatives nationwide. She began her career in event coordination, with the Detroit Pistons and The Walt Disney Company before joining the Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce, which later became part of OEP.  

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Relations and Print Journalism from Troy University. 

Bob O’Malley serves as the senior vice president of government affairs for the Orlando Economic Partnership, where he leads efforts to strengthen relationships between business and government leaders and works to advance public policies that support economic growth in Central Florida. 

Before joining the Partnership, Bob led Right Track Public Affairs, representing transportation industry clients. He played a key role in advancing the Sunshine Corridor project, which will expand SunRail service from Orlando International Airport to the Orange County Convention Center and Orlando’s theme parks. His career includes leadership roles at MetroPlan Orlando, CSX Transportation, and Brightline Trains. He also serves as a City Commissioner for Altamonte Springs. 

Bob holds both a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the University of Central Florida. He is also a graduate of Leadership Orlando Class 54, Leadership Florida Class 30, and the Senior Executives in State and Local Government program at the Harvard Kennedy School. 

Brooke Hill serves as the associate director of the Orlando Film Commission and chair of the Film Florida Film Commission Council. With a background in visual communication design, filmmaking, and fine art, she leads initiatives to attract and support film, television and digital media productions throughout Central Florida. In her role, she oversees permitting processes, location services, and the maintenance of regional production directories. 

Brooke graduated from Liberty University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in interdisciplinary studies and a master’s degree in visual communication design.