November 26, 2007

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. —   Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) is pleased to announce the promotion of Jose Gonzalez to Vice-President of Governmental Affairs. Gonzalez has been a key part of AIF’s success for the past five years, broadening his knowledge and expertise in the political arena and business management.

“I am thrilled to announce Jose’s promotion as he is an up-standing and talented member of our staff,” said Barney Bishop, president and CEO of AIF. “Jose provides insightful vision of future industry trends and possesses solid political instincts that have helped to direct AIF on the right path for Florida’s business community.”

Gonzalez is responsible for managing the governmental affairs department and working with Chief Lobbyist Keyna Cory in coordinating AIF’s 17-member lobbying team.  He also provides research and advocacy efforts for the association, and oversees the development of the various legislative informational services provided to AIF’s employer members.  

Prior to joining AIF, Gonzalez’s experience involved work as a legislative policy analyst for the Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability.  In that capacity, he helped conduct agency reviews and drafted reports on the Department of Children and Families and the Department of Education’s English as a Second Language programs.

Gonzalez is a member of Florida Blue Key, the University of Florida’s Hall of Fame, a graduate of College Leadership Florida where he currently serves on the Board of Directors. He is also a member of Leadership Florida’s Institute Committee, as well as the Florida Association of Professional Lobbyist, Capitol Tiger Bay Club, serves as Membership Chair for Tallahassee 25, and is a board member of the Florida chapter of Hispanic Young Professionals & Entrepreneurs.

He graduated from the University of Florida in 2000 with a degree in Political Science and a certificate in Latin American Studies.  In 2003, Gonzalez received a Masters of Arts degree in Political Science with a concentration in International Development Public Administration also from the University of Florida.