Welcoming Our 2025–2026 Chamber Leadership
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (November 1, 2025) – The Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches (The Chamber) is thrilled to welcome new leadership for the 2025–2026 year. Our Board of Directors brings together some of the most respected business and community leaders in Palm Beach County, united in advancing our mission of supporting growth, opportunity, and connection.
Our New Board Chair: James Johnson
We are proud to introduce James Johnson as our new Chair of the Board. James Johnson serves as Shareholder and Director of Investment Operations at Blue Ocean Capital, where he leads the firm’s daily investment operations with a client-first philosophy. With over 20 years of experience in wealth management and public accounting, he specializes in guiding high-net-worth individuals and families through the complex landscape of portfolio management, family office services and financial planning.
Jimmy’s role at Blue Ocean Capital is built on a foundation of both technical expertise and relational trust. His professional certifications including CPA, CFP® and CFS®, have shaped him into a well-rounded advisor, portfolio manager and family office executive. His goal is to ensure clients feel empowered, understood, supported and valued.
Prior to joining Blue Ocean Capital, Jimmy was with Nowlen, Holt & Miner, P.A., in West Palm Beach. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Applied Finance from Palm Beach Atlantic University.
A dedicated member of the community, Jimmy is Chair-Elect, Trustee and Board Member of the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches. He is also a member of the Rotary Club of West Palm Beach and a long-time supporter and former board member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes in Palm Beach County. Jimmy remains engaged with his alma mater, having previously co-chaired the Palm Beach Atlantic University Alumni Association’s annual golf tournament.
At the heart of Jimmy’s work is a commitment to building trust through sincere, honest and empathetic communication. He believes this is the key to forging long-term relationships and delivering value that extends beyond financial returns. One of his proudest career milestones has been the depth of relationships he’s cultivated with clients, colleagues and community partners.
Jimmy finds Blue Ocean Capital a uniquely special place to work, where clients and team members are treated like family. “We are a family serving families,” he shares.
Jimmy and his wife, Robin, live in Royal Palm Beach with their two children. He enjoys spending time with his family, playing golf and traveling. He is an active member of Christ Fellowship Church.
2025–2026 Executive Committee
• Chair – James Johnson, Blue Ocean Capital
• Chair-Elect – Allen Gast, Gast Construction
• Secretary – David Gobeo, FordHarrison LLP
• Treasurer – Katie Block, Related Ross
• Past Chair – Michael Davis, WGI
• General Counsel– Telsula C. Morgan, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
• At-Large – Brandon Cabrera, The BrandX Company
• At-Large– Barbara James, Baptist Health
Welcoming Our New Board Members
We are also honored to welcome the newest members joining our Board of Directors:
• Shane Savage – Chief Strategy Officer, PATHOS
• Barbara Cipriano – Provost, Palm Beach State College
• Matt Hedrick – Business Development Director, Hedrick Brothers Construction
• Dana Collier Herst, Esq. – Government Relations & Community Affairs, Nicklaus Children’s (ADG Strategy Group)
• Estrella Parada – Owner, The Space Connect
• Don Dufresne – Shareholder, Becker & Poliakoff
• Katrina Long Robinson – Vice President Public & Government Relations, Cornerstone Solutions
• James C. “Jamie” Gavigan, Jr. – Land Use Partner, Shutts & Bowen LLP
• Tara McCoy – CEO, HSS Florida
• Julia Murphy – Chief Advancement Officer, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County
• Todd Fleming – Executive Director, Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches
• Tara Duhy – President, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
Together, this group of leaders represents the strength, diversity, and forward-looking vision that define Palm Beach County’s business community. We look forward to working alongside them and our returning board members to continue building opportunity for our members across the Palm Beaches.
Chairman’s Circle Reception
Join The Chamber for the Annual Chairman’s Circle Reception on Saturday, November 8, 2025 from 6:00p.m. to 9:00p.m. at the National Croquet Center (700 Florida Mango Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33406) as The Chamber recognizes the outgoing Chair and welcomes Jimmy Johnson as the 2026 Chairman. The reception promises to be an entertaining and memorable affair with drinks, food, live music, and an exciting sports-theme to commemorate and celebrate another year of leadership.
About the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches
Established in 1913, the Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches is the leading voice for business in Palm Beach County. As a private, not-for-profit organization, the Chamber connects, champions, and catalyzes business success through bold leadership, inclusive partnerships, and forward-thinking programs. We serve as a dynamic hub for economic opportunity, civic engagement, and innovation—spanning industries, sectors, and communities. From supporting small businesses and startups to driving regional advocacy and workforce development, the Chamber is Built for Business and committed to building a stronger Palm Beaches for all.
