The Florida Ports Council (FPC) announced this week that it has selected its officers for the next year.
Jonathan Daniels, the CEO and port director of Port Everglades, will take over as the chairman of the FPC. Carlos Buqueras, the executive director of Port Manatee, will serve as the vice-chairman.
Daniels weighed in on his new responsibilities on Tuesday.
“I am truly honored to be chosen to lead the Florida Ports Council and look forward to working with the council’s new president, Michael Rubin, his new staff and all the council members,” said Daniels. “I am excited to help guide our ports forward and safeguard Florida’s position in global commerce and cruising.”
Daniels has been with Port Everglades since 2020. Before that, he was the executive director of the Port of Gulfport, Mississippi. He is also active with the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA), serving on its board and in several other roles with the organization.
Buqueras has also been active, including serving on the Florida District Export Council.
“The diverse nature of Florida’s seaports – like the diversity of operations here at Port Manatee – is a hallmark of our ability to provide thriving gateways for a wide variety of commerce,” Buqueras said. “I am personally honored to have the privilege of serving in a statewide leadership position with the Florida Ports Council as we together look to strengthen our state’s ports in these challenging times and further enhance our collective economic impacts.”
David Wirth, the marina and port manager for Port St. Pete, will stay on as the secretary and treasurer.
Michael Rubin, who took over as the president and CEO of the FPC at the end of July, praised the new leadership team.
“Jonathan Daniels, Carlos Buqueras and David Wirth are talented leaders, fully vested in ensuring Florida’s ports continue to be a strong economic engine for Florida. We look forward to their service and leadership guiding the Florida Ports Council over the next year,” said Rubin.
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