Jeff Atwater’s long public service career has been dedicated to improving the economy and lives of the people of Palm Beach County and our state. He was elected to the Florida House of Representatives in 2000 and then to the Florida Senate in 2002 where he went on to serve as president. It was during his time in the Senate that the world renowned Max Planck Institute for Neuroscience was recruited to northern Palm Beach County, and Jeff recognized and supported this important investment in our future. After leaving the Senate, Jeff successfully ran for election as the state’s Chief Financial Officer. In that capacity Jeff oversaw the financial affairs of the world’s 16th largest economy, and guided the state finances through the Great Recession.Â
Following public service, Jeff joined Florida Atlantic University as Vice President for Strategic Initiatives & Chief Financial Officer, focusing on finance and economic development until 2023 when he joined Ballard Partners. He remains an active mentor and advocate for initiatives that accelerate innovation and prosperity in South Florida.