Former state House Speaker Dean Cannon is taking over as president and managing director of GrayRobinson at the start of September.
GrayRobinson announced Cannon’s promotion from his current post as executive vice president and chair of the firm’s government affairs practice. He takes over from Mayanne Downs who will continue her work with the firm.
“I am extremely honored to have received Mayanne’s nomination and the unanimous support of my colleagues, many of whom have provided support and longtime friendship that has helped shape my legal and political career,” said Cannon. “We have an incredible law firm, and I am extremely grateful for this opportunity, and fully committed to our collective future success as I undertake the position of president and managing director.”
Now 50, Cannon was based out of Winter Park where he was first elected to the Florida House in 2004, taking over as speaker after the 2010 elections and facing term limits in 2012. During his four terms, Cannon focused on a host of issues including tax reform, healthcare, Medicaid and reforming the courts.
Cannon insisted he will “embrace the ‘twin pillars’ of civic involvement and maintaining strong relationships within government at all levels” in his new role.
“Building relationships with government leaders, as well as civic and corporate leaders throughout our state, has greatly enhanced our ability to advance our clients’ interests,” Cannon said. “In a time of great technological and cultural change, it will be even more important to maintain personal relationships within our communities, and within our government.”
“Mayanne’s sincerity, enthusiasm, and dedication to the firm have been tremendous,” said J. Charles Gray, the chair emeritus and founder of GrayRobinson. “Under her leadership, GrayRobinson has thrived. We have remained true to our traditions, yet never allowed ourselves to be restrained in the pursuit of excellence. I am truly grateful to Mayanne for her contributions to our firm. We look forward to her continued leadership and service as she continues her practice with GrayRobinson.”
“It has been a tremendous honor to serve our clients and my colleagues at GrayRobinson,” said Downs. “With the work I set out to achieve now completed, and as I look toward the future of the firm, I am enthusiastic about our continued success under the leadership of my colleague and friend Dean Cannon. There is no one more devoted or visionary as he is, and it will be exciting to work alongside him as he takes the helm.”
With 15 offices, GrayRobinson is one of the most prominent law firms and lobbying teams in Florida.
