July 2026 Luncheon - Connecting Commerce: The Impact of SRQ Airport and Seaport Manatee on Our Community

Description

Check-in & Networking 11:30AM-12:00PM
Program 12:00-1:00PM

Join us for an engaging luncheon featuring the chief executives of Sarasota Bradenton International Airport and SeaPort Manatee. As two of the region’s most important transportation and commerce assets, these organizations play a vital role in attracting investment, supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and strengthening the economic competitiveness of our community.

Hear directly from both CEOs as they discuss current initiatives, future growth plans, infrastructure investments, and the expanding role of air and maritime transportation in driving regional prosperity. Discover how SRQ Airport and SeaPort Manatee serve as critical gateways for tourism, trade, workforce development, and economic opportunity throughout the Gulf Coast region.

Whether you are a business leader, entrepreneur, community stakeholder, or economic development advocate, this luncheon offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable insights into the assets shaping our region’s future.

Speakers

Carlos Buqueras
Executive Director - SeaPort Manatee

With more than 30 years of distinguished Florida port leadership, Carlos Buqueras is renowned for his achievements across all facets of seaport business development and operations, including containerized, bulk and breakbulk cargo, as well as cruise and ferry services.

Since assuming leadership of SeaPort Manatee in 2012, Mr. Buqueras has guided the port through a period of unprecedented accomplishment, marked by record- setting growth, major infrastructure expansion, and strengthened global trade connections.

Prior to joining SeaPort Manatee, Mr. Buqueras served for 22 years as Director of Business Development at Port Everglades, where he played a key role in doubling container volumes, expanding cruise operations, and advancing public-private partnerships.

Mr. Buqueras is fluent in five languages – English, Spanish, French, Portuguese and Catalán– and holds a master’s in business administration degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University of Madison, N.J.

Paul Hoback Jr.
President, Chief Executive Officer - Sarasota Bradenton International Airport

Paul L. Hoback Jr. brings more than 25 years of leadership experience in the aviation industry to his role as President and Chief Executive Officer of Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority, which operates the Sarasota Bradenton International Airport.

Prior to joining SRQ, Mr. Hoback served as Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer for the Allegheny County Airport Authority, which operates Pittsburgh International Airport and Allegheny County Airport. In this role, he provided leadership, oversight, and strategic direction for all capital development projects, public safety, maintenance, and operations. This included leading PIT’s $1.7 billion Terminal Modernization Program and $220 million Airside Renovation.

Throughout his career in aviation, Mr. Hoback has advanced major regional and national aviation initiatives, including the creation of the neighborhood 91 additive manufacturing campus, development of one of the nation’s first airport microgrids, and expansion of numerous cargo facilities. His leadership has been instrumental in shaping modern, sustainable airport infrastructure.

Mr. Hoback began his career in aviation with roles in engineering and operations, rising through the ranks to become a member of the airport executive team, with over 15 years in executive leadership positions. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Business Administration from Geneva College.

He is an active member of aviation and construction industry committees and is a Certified Member of the American Association of Airport Executives.

Mr. Hoback now leads SRQ during a time of rapid growth and expansion, focused on enhancing passenger experience, strengthening community partnerships, and ensuring the airport’s continued economic impact on the Sarasota–Bradenton region.

On a personal note, Mr. Hoback is married with a son in college and enjoys spending time with family and being active in the community.