TALLAHASSEE (FLV) – Dane Eagle, former Secretary of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity for Gov. Ron DeSantis, joined Ballard Partners, one of the top government relations firms in the United States.
“I am honored to become a part of the exceptional team of professionals at Ballard Partners,” Eagle said in a press release.
“I look forward to establishing a strong presence in Tallahassee and am particularly excited to help the firm expand into the fast-growing Southwest Florida area.”
Eagle was appointed by DeSantis to serve as Florida’s Secretary of Economic Opportunity in September of 2020. In that role, he helped the governor advance Florida’s economy by championing the state’s economic development vision.
Previously, Dane represented parts of Southwest Florida in the Florida House of Representatives from 2012 to 2020 and became Majority Leader, where he was responsible for leading the Republican Caucus and ushering legislation to the governor’s desk.
He focused on supporting Florida’s families and small businesses by reducing taxes and regulations to further establish Florida’s business-friendly environment and further diversify Florida’s economy.
During his tenure in the House, Dane also served as the Majority Whip and the Chairman of the Energy and Utilities Subcommittee.
“Dane’s experience as a state legislator and as Governor DeSantis’ top economic development official will make him an invaluable member of our firm,” said Brian Ballard, the firm’s President and Founder.
“We are delighted to have Dane bring his extensive experience to serve the firm’s clients in Tallahassee and also open our new office in Fort Myers to serve Southwest Florida.”
Eagle previously announced he was leaving the Administration.
“Thank you, Secretary @DaneEagle, for your outstanding service to Florida’s businesses and workforce,” he said. “Under your leadership at @FLDEO, you helped to strengthen our communities and nation-leading economy. We wish you the best in your next endeavors.”
Eagle thanked the governor for the opportunity.
Under Eagle and DeSantis, many economic grants for causes like infrastructure and workforce development have been awarded to counties across the state.
