The Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants (FICPA) announced on Wednesday that Justin Thames has been named the Institute’s Chief External Affairs Officer.
In this newly created role, Thames will oversee the strategic leadership of all aspects of the FICPA’s public policy, advocacy, governmental affairs and regulatory efforts. He will also oversee all advocacy-related external communications and public-awareness campaigns aimed at increasing understanding of and appreciation for the value of the CPA license.
"Advocacy is at the heart of the FICPA, and there is no better person to represent our members in Tallahassee than Justin Thames,” FICPA President and CEO Shelly Weir said. “This move speaks to our belief in Justin and our around-the-clock commitment to protecting your license and promoting the CPA profession.”
Thames has more than 15 years’ experience in the field of Government Relations. He joined the FICPA as its Governmental Affairs Manager in 2011 and was promoted to Director of Governmental Affairs in 2015. Prior to the FICPA, he was employed as the Grassroots and Political Action Coordinator for the League of Southeastern Credit Unions.
Thames currently serves on the boards of the American Red Cross North Florida Region, Capitol Area; Florida Association of Professional Lobbyists; and Florida Chamber Foundation. He is a graduate of Leadership Florida Connect and the Florida TaxWatch Citizenship Institute. A graduate of Florida State University, Thames and his family remained in Tallahassee and continue to be actively involved in their community.
“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to further my role with the FICPA, representing our members and the CPA profession in Florida,” Thames said. “It’s such a privilege to be part of the team Shelly Weir is building to lead our organization, and the profession, into this next chapter. I look forward to continued relationships with our dedicated volunteer members and ensuring CPAs count in Florida.”
As the FICPA settles into its new headquarters in Orlando this year, Thames will continue to lead the FICPA’s Governmental Affairs Department from its office in downtown Tallahassee, just steps away from the Florida Capitol.
