The Southern Group, Florida’s largest lobbying firm, announced the expansion of their Tampa Bay-based team with the addition of former Pasco County Commissioner Mike Moore. Moore, a fixture in Pasco politics for the last decade, brings with him extensive experience in local government administration, economic development, transportation, tourism, and healthcare.
“Mike Moore made an incredible impact on the people and businesses of Pasco County, putting the region on the map through smart policy and strategic development,” said Paul Bradshaw, founder and Chairman of The Southern Group. “I’m confident he’ll bring that same level of passion and expertise to the table for our many varied clients.”
Initially elected to serve the residents of Pasco County in 2014, Moore served as Chair of the County Commission in 2017 and 2020. Throughout his tenure, Moore was instrumental in bringing several high-profile projects to the region including the development of Wesley Chapel, which has blossomed into one of the fastest growing areas in the nation. Moore also oversaw the completion of the 98,000 sq. ft. Wiregrass Ranch Sports Campus and a 17,800 sq. ft. recreation center at Wesley Chapel District Park, which includes a 7,000-square-foot playground adapted for children with disabilities.
“Mike Moore is a great friend and a tremendous leader in Pasco County who knows better than most how to get things done,” said former Florida Senate President, now Florida Commissioner of Agriculture, Wilton Simpson. “His service on the County Commission did our area proud and I’m confident he’ll be a huge asset to the Southern Group and his clients.”
A veteran of the state policy and appropriations processes as well, Moore advocated for various transportation projects on behalf of the region over the years resulting in the improved daily commute of over 600,000 Pasco County residents. During his tenure Moore also helped Pasco County administration modernize their tourism bureau to better align with the various activity and sporting resources developed throughout the county.
“The Southern Group is super exited to welcome Mike Moore to our Tampa Bay team,” shared Seth McKeel, Tampa Bay Managing Partner. “As our impact and reach throughout the region continues to grow, Mike is exactly the type of energetic leader who’ll bring his renown passion and enthusiasm to delivering impactful results for our clients.”
Prior to his government service, Mike founded a successful healthcare company which he built from the ground up. He grew the company to be the largest of its kind in the Tampa Bay Region and later sold the company to a private equity group in 2012. In 2014, Mike was appointed to the Tampa Bay Regional Planning Council, where he helped tackle regional issues related to transportation, economic development, housing, and emergency preparedness. In 2017, Mike was awarded the community hero award by the now the North Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce for his herculean efforts to help residents following the devastation caused by Hurricane Irma. In 2019, Mike was recognized as the “Best Local Politician” in the Best of the Bay awards sponsored Creative Loafing.
Mike graduated with his bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida and lives in Wesley Chapel with his wife and three children.
