Influence JAX
Photo by Member Mark Krancer, Kram Kran Photo
Your City.
Your Leadership.
Influence JAX is designed for business professionals who want to deepen their understanding of government, expand their civic impact, and strengthen their ability to lead in the public arena—whether as elected officials, engaged citizens, or business professionals working within or alongside government.
Meet our Facilitators

Daniel Davis
President & CEO, JAX Chamber

Misty Skipper
Chief Strategy Officer, GATE Petroleum Company

Adam Hollingsworth
Strategic Advisor, TSG Advisors
Meet our Featured Speakers

Mayor Deegan
Mayor, City of Jacksonville

Tia Mitchell
Washington Bureau Chief, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

John Bachman
Partner, Bachman Galnor Communications

Matt Galnor
Partner, Bachman Galnor Communications

John Peyton
President, GATE Petroleum Company

Rachel Cone
Senior Managing Partner, The Southern Group
Program Overview
This program is designed for business professionals who aim to influence government for the betterment of their community and industry. Leaders who are eager to serve their city through elected office, on boards or nonprofits. Those dedicated to government affairs, policy, or advocacy for their companies, and individuals striving to enhance their communication, crisis management, and decision-making skills under pressure, shaping a brighter future for all.

Application Requirements
The Influence JAX program is designed for professionals who want to deepen their political knowledge and make an impact in our region. If selected, there is a $3,000 program fee to participate. your employer must be a Bronze + level member, and attendance on the dates listed below is required.
For more information about the program, contact Kelly Pourciau at kelly.pourciau@jaxchamber.com.
Applications Open Monday, April 14, 2025
Applications Close Friday, April 25, 2025
Program Meetings
Module 1: 9:00 – 2:00* –8/26 OR 8/28
Module 2: 9:00 – 12:00 – 9/16
Module 3: 9:00 – 1:00* – 10/14
Module 4: 9:00 – 12:00 – 11/18
Module 5: 9:00 – 1:00* – 1/13
Module 6: 9:00 – 12:00 – 2/17
Module 7: 9:00 – 1:30* – 3/17
Module 8: 9:00 – 12:00 – 4/14
Module 9: 4:00 – 8:00 – 5/28
*includes lunch

The place I love – Understanding the forces shaping Jacksonville and how business leaders can engage in its future.
Ways to serve – Beyond elected office: how professionals can contribute through boards, commissions, and community leadership.
Understanding the political process – A deep dive into how government works, who makes decisions, and how business leaders can shape policy.

Communicating and leading in the public arena – Mastering public messaging, media relations, crisis communication, and persuasion in business and civic life.
Strategy and influence in government – How leaders build coalitions, navigate government processes, and advocate effectively.
Governance and leadership – How policies are made, how budgets work, and how business leaders can engage effectively with government.

Policy, influence, and business impact – How the private sector and government interact—and how leaders can shape policy for economic growth.
Navigating public leadership – Lessons in leadership, ethics, and decision-making under pressure.
Creating a lasting civic impact – How to mentor future leaders, serve your city, and leave a lasting legacy in business and civic life.