Central Florida Public Affairs

Serving Central Florida for 25+ Years

Central Florida Public Affairs has established a strong track record since its founding with a client portfolio that encompasses a wide range of prestigious organizations, including Fortune 100 companies, leading sports, entertainment, and leisure agencies, and specialized industry firms, at both local and federal levels.

Our past and current clients include:

Industry Leaders: Walmart, Siemens Gamesa, Lockheed Martin, Associated Industries of Florida, Orlando Economic Partnership

Real Estate & Development: SunTerra Properties, Colliers Engineering, Pulte, Embrey, Landmark Development

Tourism & Hospitality: Walt Disney World, Visit Orlando, Florida Citrus Sports, Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, Paradies Lagarde

Transportation & Infrastructure: Central Florida Expressway Authority, Glydways, Lux-Solar In Road Lights, Bus Patrol

Non-Profits & Community Organizations: CareerSource Central Florida, Family Partnerships of Central Florida, Children’s Network of Hillsborough, Community Partnerships for Children, Safe Children’s Coalition, St. John’s County, RISE Community Solutions

Healthcare: Nemours Children’s Health, MASA Access, Cigna Healthcare

Higher Education: Rollins College

Emerging Companies: Lime, Spin, Helbiz, Tidal Basin, Red Speed USA

As founder of Central Florida Public Affairs (CFPA), Sharon Smoley is a seasoned professional with more than 20 years of experience navigating government relations and sparking community engagement across Central Florida.

Before building CFPA, Sharon wore many hats in public affairs. From crafting winning government and communication strategies to building powerful business coalitions, she’s seen it all. Her impressive track record includes work in tourism, healthcare, tech, and more.

Before founding CFPA, Sharon led the Public Affairs team at the Orlando Economic Partnership, championing regional policy issues for Central Florida’s business community. She’s also served as State Director of Public Affairs at Charter Communications, and Manager of Public Affairs at Walt Disney World.

Sharon’s passion extends beyond business. She actively serves on boards and committees, giving back to the community she champions.

Most recently, Sharon served as the Vice President of Advocacy and Public Policy for the Orlando Economic Partnership (“Partnership”). In her role, she was head of the Public Affairs team, allowing her to lead on regional policy issues at all levels of government on behalf of Central Florida’s business community.

Sharon believes strongly in giving back to the community through service. She has served on many boards and advisory committees throughout the region while representing clients on industry boards and associations.

Our past and current clients include:

Industry Leaders: Walmart, Siemens, Lockheed Martin

Real Estate & Development: SunTerra Properties, Colliers Engineering

Tourism & Hospitality: Disney, Visit Orlando, Florida Citrus Sports

Transportation & Infrastructure: Central Florida Expressway Authority

Non-Profits & Community Organizations: Embrace Families, CareerSource Central Florida, Family Partnerships of Central Florida

Higher Education: Rollins College

Emerging Companies: Lime, Spin, Helbiz, Tidal Basin, Red Speed USA

About Sharon Smoley

Sharon’s passion extends beyond business. She actively serves on boards and committees, giving back to the community she champions.

What Leaders Say

Sharon Smoley leads game-changing initiatives for Orlando. From her time at Walt Disney World, where she was critical in negotiating the world-class sports and entertainment venues we have today, to most recently, helping create micro-mobility options for our residents, she's moved initiatives forward making the City of Orlando a better place.

Buddy Dyer

Orlando

Sharon is a trusted voice in Osceola County when it comes to business and political issues. She is known for her accuracy and ability to advance issues among different constituencies and audiences.

Commissioner Vivian Janer

Osceola County, District 2

About Rachael Kobb

Rachael Kobb is a seasoned Senior Policy Advisor at CFPA, specializing in government relations and community engagement across Central Florida. With expertise in policy, communication, and leadership, Kobb fosters coalitions to advance regional economic and social goals at local, state, and federal levels.

Formerly, Kobb excelled as Campaign Manager for Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, surpassing fundraising targets and aiding in his reelection with 73 percent of the vote. Prior roles include Vice President of Public Affairs & Communications at the Orlando Economic Partnership, where she drove significant investments into the region and directed corporate communications efforts. With eight years at Orlando Health, Kobb brings extensive healthcare policy and financing experience to her work.

Beyond her professional roles, Kobb actively contributes to local community organizations, serving on boards and advisory councils such as the Tiger Bay Club of Central Florida and Valencia College Horizon Scholars. She’s chaired the Seminole County Chamber of Commerce and participated in Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings’ Housing for All Task Force. Recognized as a leader in her field, Kobb has received accolades including Orlando Business Journal’s “40 Under 40” and Becker’s Healthcare Review’s “Rising Star: 90 Healthcare Leaders Under 40.”

Kobb holds a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Central Florida and a bachelor’s degree in political science from Temple University.

About Robbie Vogan

Robbie Vogan joined CFPA in May 2024 as Government Affairs Advisor, bringing a wealth of experience in public policy, government affairs, political strategy, and campaign management.

Prior to joining CFPA, Robbie held positions in the offices of three Florida State Senators, Jason Brodeur, Keith Perry and Dana Young and U.S. Congressman Bill Posey. Renowned for his strategic acumen, Robbie played pivotal roles in securing substantial appropriations and advancing key legislative priorities in areas such as the environment, agriculture, and child welfare while serving in a number of roles.

With a foundation in campaign management, Robbie has garnered recognition for his innovative voter engagement tactics and adept management of large-scale operations. Across the last three election cycles, he was instrumental in pivotal roles within the largest State Senate campaigns in Florida’s history.

In his most recent role as Director of Public Affairs for a child welfare non-profit, Embrace Families, Inc., Robbie led multifaceted policy initiatives at local, state, and federal levels, resulting in significant funding allocations to support families in need.

A native of Seminole County, Robbie graduated from the University of Central Florida with a BA in International and Global Studies, where he also distinguished himself as a published researcher.

Lydia Claire Kirkland

Lydia Claire Kirkland joined CFPA in October 2025 as Senior Political Strategist, bringing two decades of experience in Florida politics as well as relationships with legislative leaders throughout the state.

Prior to joining CFPA, Lydia Claire served as Political Director for the Florida Justice Association, managing their PAC and working on issues advocacy, including policy initiatives in the Florida Legislature. Before that, she worked as a fundraiser, campaign manager, and consultant for numerous campaigns and caucuses in Florida, North Carolina, and Tennessee.

Originally from Wisconsin, Lydia Claire grew up on a farm an hour away from Lambeau Field before attending the University of Florida. She remains a loyal Packer and Gator fan. Lydia Claire and her husband Jordan live in Tallahassee with their two dogs.

industry experience to meet your needs

Let's Work Together