Meet the CFO

Jeff Atwater

Jeff Atwater, a fifth-generation Floridian, was elected Florida's Chief Financial Officer November 2, 2010, and was sworn into office on January 4, 2011. CFO Atwater believes that Florida can best prosper through its people rather than its government. The cornerstone of his platform as CFO is to reduce the burden on Florida's families by spending every taxpayer dime in the most efficient and effective manner. Some of his top priorities include fighting financial fraud, abuse and government waste, reducing regulatory burdens that stifle business growth, providing for transparency and accountability in government spending, and creating the conditions for economic development and prosperity in Florida.

Guided by his family's time-honored tradition of serving the community, CFO Atwater was inspired by his parents' values, work ethic, commitment to family, and a deep sense of appreciation for community service. CFO Atwater's commitment to public service first began in 1993 when he served as Vice Mayor of North Palm Beach.

In 2000, he began his legislative service as a member of the Florida House of Representatives. Two years later, he was elected to the Florida Senate where he continued to serve the people of Broward and Palm Beach counties. After chairing high profile Senate committees, CFO Atwater gained the unanimous support of his fellow Senators in becoming Senate President and led the Senate from 2008 through 2010. In the Legislature, CFO Atwater dedicated his 10 years of service to improving the lives of Floridians by lowering taxes, raising school performance standards and establishing incentives that attract emerging industries to Florida.

Prior to serving his fellow Floridians in public office, CFO Atwater worked as a community banker for more than 25 years, giving him unique insights into banking, insurance, finance, fiscal responsibility and the burden that taxes and regulations place on small businesses and families. CFO Atwater received his Bachelor's degree in Finance and Masters of Business Administration from the University of Florida. CFO Atwater has been an active member of the community, serving on several advisory boards including United Way of Palm Beach County, Boy Scouts of America, Children's Home Society of Broward County, 5-Star Magnet Program of Palm Beach Gardens High School, and Roger Dean Stadium. Additionally, he served on the board of directors of the Northern Palm Beaches Chamber of Commerce.

CFO Atwater and his wife, Carole, have four children.