“Strategy is my foundation,” says Kelly Cohen, “but relationships are my superpower.”
The lobbyist, strategist and fundraiser, a perennial name on Florida’s “most powerful” and “most influential” lists, is celebrating The Southern Group’s 20th anniversary in Orlando this year.
“When I began, there were few women at the table and little recognition of the power of local government in shaping economic outcomes,” says Cohen. “Two decades later, I’ve helped redefine both of those spaces within the lobbying industry in Florida—building bridges between business and government, mentoring women into leadership and demonstrating how cities and counties can be drivers of transformative growth. I’m proud of the impact—and excited for what’s next.”
Speaking of what’s next, Cohen says Orange County redistricting and pivotal elections coming up next year offer a once-in-a-generation opportunity to shape the region’s leadership and direction.