Will Weatherford

Will Weatherford is a distinguished American entrepreneur and former political figure who has made significant contributions in both public service and the private sector. Born on November 14, 1979, in Dallas, Texas, Weatherford has become an influential presence in Florida's political and business arenas.

Educational Background and Early Career

Weatherford pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in International Business at the Davis College of Business, Jacksonville University. His collegiate years were marked not only by academic achievement but also by his involvement in athletics, having been recruited to play football. His early career laid a strong foundation for his later successes, featuring prominent roles such as a commercial real estate broker and a legislative assistant to the Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives.

Political Career Highlights

Weatherford's political journey began with his election to the Florida House of Representatives in 2006, where he served until 2014. His tenure was highlighted by his appointment as the 84th Speaker of the Florida House at the tender age of 33, which positioned him as the youngest presiding officer among any state legislative chamber in the nation at the time. During his leadership, Weatherford passionately advocated for enhancing social mobility through initiatives in free enterprise and education reform. He focused significantly on combating generational poverty, asserting it as a critical priority.

Ventures in Business

Following a successful political career, Weatherford transitioned to the business sector, where he co-founded Weatherford Capital alongside his brothers, Drew and Sam. His role as the Managing Partner of Weatherford Capital emphasizes leadership and nurturing a strong corporate culture. Under his guidance, the firm has exceeded $1 billion in assets under management, marking it as the leading private equity firm located in Tampa Bay. Weatherford Capital centers its investments on growth equity in technology and technology-enabled organizations, with a particular focus on B2B and B2G markets.

Current Roles and Community Engagement

Today, Weatherford continues to be an active figure in both the business world and community involvement. He holds the position of Chairman on the University of South Florida's Board of Trustees, with his term extending until 2026. His community service is further exemplified through his leadership as Co-Chairman of the Super Bowl LV Host Committee in Tampa Bay. Additionally, he serves on the boards of multiple organizations, including Dream Finders Homes, GuideWell, PayIt, Utility, Inc., The Florida Council of 100, and The American Enterprise Institute.

Personal Life and Legacy

Will Weatherford is committed to his family, being the husband to Courtney Weatherford and father to their four children. His dedication to both family and community reflects in his professional role and personal life. Weatherford's impact is characterized by a steadfast dedication to improving the conditions around him through effective leadership, visionary business strategies, and involvement in building a vibrant community.