State of Florida Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

State of Florida has 10 executives leading key functions including administration, finance, emergency management, information technology, and legislative liaison.

Driven by a commitment to public service, State of Florida focuses on efficient governance and the well-being of its citizens, reflecting a rich tapestry of cultural influences in its architecture and cuisine.

Leadership Roles at State of Florida

  • Chief Financial Officer - Jimmy Patronis
  • Chief of Staff - Mary Pridgeon
  • Florida Department of Emergency Management Chief of Staff - Jonathan Bussey
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Stasi Kamoutsas
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Melissa Smith
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Cody Farrill
  • Chief Information Officer, State - Warren Sponholtz
  • Chief of Staff & Scott Plakon, Member of House Representative - Luke Givens
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Kathryn Strickland
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Lori Rowe
  • Jimmy Patronis - Chief Financial Officer

    Jimmy Patronis, the Chief Financial Officer at State of Florida, manages the state's fiscal health and financial planning. Overseeing treasury operations, investment strategies, and budget oversight, Patronis ensures fiscal responsibility and economic stability for Florida. This executive role involves safeguarding public funds, optimizing revenue collection, and directing financial policy to support state initiatives. By implementing sound financial management practices, Jimmy Patronis directly contributes to the state's economic resilience and growth. The responsibilities extend to auditing state agencies, protecting consumers from financial fraud, and advising on matters of economic development, all crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring the state's financial integrity.

    Mary Pridgeon - Chief of Staff

    Mary Pridgeon, the Chief of Staff at State of Florida, directs administrative operations and strategic initiatives across state government functions. Overseeing departmental coordination, Pridgeon ensures alignment with the governor's policy objectives and facilitates inter-agency communication. This leadership role involves managing key personnel, optimizing resource allocation, and driving operational efficiency throughout state agencies. By developing and implementing strategic plans, Mary Pridgeon directly supports the state's mission of effective governance and public service. The scope of this position encompasses critical decision-making processes and the execution of broad governmental mandates, ensuring the smooth functioning of state administration and its impact on Florida's residents.

    Jonathan Bussey - Florida Department of Emergency Management Chief of Staff

    Jonathan Bussey, the Florida Department of Emergency Management Chief of Staff at State of Florida, orchestrates emergency preparedness and response operations. Overseeing the coordination of disaster relief efforts, resource deployment, and inter-agency collaboration during crises, Bussey ensures the safety and security of Florida's citizens. This critical role involves developing and executing comprehensive emergency management plans, managing departmental staff, and liaising with federal and local partners. By driving effective communication and strategic planning, Jonathan Bussey directly enhances the state's capacity to mitigate, respond to, and recover from natural disasters and other emergencies. The position demands swift decision-making and robust logistical management to protect communities across the state.

    Stasi Kamoutsas - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Stasi Kamoutsas, the Deputy Chief of Staff at State of Florida, supports the Chief of Staff in managing administrative functions and implementing strategic directives. Overseeing specific departmental portfolios and special projects, Kamoutsas ensures operational continuity and policy execution across various state agencies. This role involves coordinating interdepartmental initiatives, analyzing policy impacts, and facilitating communication between executive leadership and operational teams. By driving project management and stakeholder engagement, Stasi Kamoutsas directly contributes to the efficient delivery of state services and the achievement of governmental objectives. The position requires a keen understanding of state operations and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

    Melissa Smith - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Melissa Smith, the Deputy Chief of Staff at State of Florida, assists in the oversight of key administrative and policy initiatives. Managing specific operational areas and cross-agency projects, Smith ensures the effective implementation of the governor's agenda. This role involves coordinating legislative affairs, analyzing policy proposals, and facilitating communication with external stakeholders. By driving strategic alignment and operational improvements, Melissa Smith directly supports the state's commitment to effective governance and public service. The position demands strong organizational skills and a comprehensive understanding of state government functions to advance critical initiatives.

    Cody Farrill - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Cody Farrill, the Deputy Chief of Staff at State of Florida, focuses on advancing specific policy objectives and operational enhancements. Overseeing designated state programs and initiatives, Farrill ensures their alignment with broader governmental strategies and mandates. This role involves detailed project management, inter-agency coordination, and the analysis of program effectiveness. By driving the execution of critical state projects, Cody Farrill directly contributes to improving public services and governmental efficiency. The position requires a strategic mindset and the ability to navigate complex administrative landscapes to achieve tangible results for the state.

    Warren Sponholtz - Chief Information Officer, State

    Warren Sponholtz, the Chief Information Officer, State at State of Florida, directs the state's technology strategy and digital infrastructure. Overseeing the implementation of IT policies, cybersecurity measures, and digital transformation initiatives, Sponholtz ensures secure and efficient technology services for state agencies and residents. This executive role involves managing the state's technology budget, fostering innovation, and ensuring compliance with data privacy regulations. By driving technological advancements, Warren Sponholtz directly enhances government operations and service delivery through robust IT solutions. The position is crucial for modernizing state systems and safeguarding sensitive information across Florida.

    Luke Givens - Chief of Staff & Scott Plakon, Member of House Representative

    Luke Givens, the Chief of Staff & Scott Plakon, Member of House Representative at State of Florida, bridges executive administration and legislative functions. Overseeing the coordination between the executive office and the House of Representatives, Givens ensures effective communication and alignment on policy matters. This role involves managing legislative priorities, facilitating bill passage, and representing executive interests within the legislative branch. By driving collaborative efforts, Luke Givens directly supports the state's legislative agenda and policy development. The position requires a deep understanding of both administrative processes and legislative procedures to advance state objectives.

    Kathryn Strickland - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Kathryn Strickland, the Deputy Chief of Staff at State of Florida, supports the Chief of Staff in overseeing critical state operations and policy implementation. Managing specific departmental functions and strategic projects, Strickland ensures the efficient execution of governmental directives. This role involves coordinating inter-agency collaborations, analyzing policy effectiveness, and driving operational improvements across state entities. By facilitating strategic alignment and resource management, Kathryn Strickland directly contributes to the state's commitment to effective public administration and service delivery. The position demands a proactive approach to problem-solving and a thorough understanding of state governance.

    Lori Rowe - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Lori Rowe, the Deputy Chief of Staff at State of Florida, assists in the strategic direction and operational management of state government. Overseeing key administrative initiatives and departmental coordination, Rowe ensures the effective implementation of executive priorities. This role involves managing cross-functional projects, analyzing policy impacts, and fostering communication between leadership and operational teams. By driving efficiency and strategic alignment, Lori Rowe directly supports the state's mission to serve its citizens effectively. The position requires strong leadership capabilities and a comprehensive grasp of state government operations.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding State of Florida Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads State of Florida?
    State of Florida is led by Jimmy Patronis (Chief Financial Officer), along with executives such as Mary Pridgeon (Chief of Staff) and Jonathan Bussey (Florida Department of Emergency Management Chief of Staff).
    Who is part of State of Florida’s executive team?
    The executive team of State of Florida includes leaders such as Jimmy Patronis (Chief Financial Officer), Mary Pridgeon (Chief of Staff), Jonathan Bussey (Florida Department of Emergency Management Chief of Staff) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does State of Florida have?
    State of Florida has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in State of Florida’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of State of Florida includes roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief of Staff, Florida Department of Emergency Management Chief of Staff, Deputy Chief of Staff, Deputy Chief of Staff.