Jim Rosica
Carlos Cruz and Jon Yapo have joined Converge Government Affairs, the new firm founded by veteran influencer Jonathan Kilman, the firm said in a statement.
“We could not be happier about Carlos Cruz joining the firm, and the synergy we gain by adding Carlos is powerful,” said Kilman, the firm’s chairman.
“With his Jacksonville presence, Carlos adds geographic strength to our already existing South Florida, Central Florida and Tallahassee bases,” Kilman explained.
“Some great lobbyists have approached us about joining the firm … but we set our sights on Carlos because of his work ethic, integrity and the quality of his relationships. It’s no mistake that he consistently maintains top-tier clients in Florida.”
Cruz joins Converge as a partner in the firm’s statewide practice. (A story on the firm from last month is here.) He’s been lobbying for over 20 years, following his work at the Capitol in the Senate and Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
“It was clear to me that Converge will be one of the top government affairs firm in Florida, and I jumped at the chance to join,” said Cruz, whose clients include AT&T, U.S. Sugar, State Farm and Walgreens.
Yapo’s joining the firm as a Government Affairs Advisor should be no surprise, Kilman said.
He lobbied side-by-side with Converge founders Kilman and Paul Lowell at their previous firm. The trio’s been seen working the halls of the Capitol together for years.
“Jon continues to add tremendous value through his endless relationships throughout Florida,” Lowell said. “During campaign season he does the hard work, and people remember.”
Lowell added that Yapo is known for building strong personal ties both in the Capitol and with clients. He’s also known for his personal style, having twice been named to a national “best dressed” list published by political operative Roger Stone.
