TAMPA, Fla. – LAWFUEL – January 10, 2007 – Holland & Knight LLP today announced that Bob Martinez, former Governor of the state of Florida, will join the firm upon completion of routine transition matters. Governor Martinez, who joins as senior policy advisor, will maintain offices in Tampa, Tallahassee and Washington, D.C.
Governor Martinez has a long and distinguished career in public service that spans more than 40 years. He was governor of the state of Florida from 1987-1991, served in President George H. W. Bush’s cabinet as the nation’s Drug Czar from 1991-1993, was mayor of the city of Tampa from 1979-1986, and was vice chair of the Southwest Florida Water Management District from 1975-1979. Governor Martinez is known for his creation of effective environmental protection programs, his focus on drug control and his commitment to public education. He has participated in a number of presidential missions to Latin America, giving him valuable experience in international affairs.
“The arrival of one of Florida’s most respected government leaders demonstrates our firm’s commitment to assembling a preeminent team of problem solvers that can effectively serve our clients throughout Florida, in the nation’s capitol and internationally,” said Holland & Knight Managing Partner Howell W. Melton, Jr. “The governor’s leadership, reputation and track record on policy add significant strength to our team as we focus on becoming the go-to firm for advocacy in Florida.”
“I’m excited about joining Holland & Knight, a firm with a rich history of serving Florida and clients around the world,” said Governor Martinez. “We have a common vision – to be government problem solvers. I look forward to helping the firm’s clients find solutions to Florida’s most important issues.”
About Governor Bob Martinez: Bob Martinez was Florida’s first American governor of Hispanic descent and the second Republican since Reconstruction to be elected to the governor’s office. Born in Tampa, Martinez earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Tampa and a master’s in labor and industrial relations from the University of Illinois. Prior to joining Holland & Knight, Bob Martinez was managing director of government consulting for Tampa-based law firm Carlton Fields.
About Holland & Knight LLP: Holland & Knight is a global law firm with more than 1,150 lawyers in 17 U.S. offices. Other offices around the world are located in Mexico City, Tokyo and Beijing, with representative offices in Caracas, Helsinki and Tel Aviv. Holland & Knight is among the world’s 15 largest firms, providing representation in litigation, business, real estate and governmental law. Our interdisciplinary practice groups and industry-based teams ensure clients have access to attorneys with the best expertise, regardless of location. www.hklaw.com
