Former Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn — who might also be future Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn should the expectation that he will run again in 2027 work out in his favor — has landed a top award from Tampa Bay Business & Wealth (TBBW).
TBBW is a monthly magazine and online publication dedicated to providing news relevant to the local business community. It honored Buckhorn earlier this month with its 2025 Apogee ICON Award, celebrating Buckhorn’s decades of leadership, resilience and transformative impact on Tampa and elsewhere.
Buckhorn, now executive vice president and principal of the U.S. Cities Practice at Shumaker, served as Mayor of Tampa for two consecutive terms, from 2011 to 2019. The timing of his service meant Buckhorn was tasked with leading the city out of the Great Depression, inheriting an office with a $30 million shortfall. Nevertheless, Buckhorn was able to balance Tampa’s billion-dollar budget each of his eight years in office, while also making strategic investments in infrastructure.
His work revitalizing Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park led to one of its buildings being named after him, and Buckhorn is often credited with improving and expanding the Tampa Riverwalk, connecting downtown Tampa to the west river and revitalizing a once under-utilized stretch of riverfront land.
“When I took office, Tampa was facing one of the toughest chapters in its history, but together, we turned challenge into opportunity. Balancing the budget was only the beginning — we built a city ready to compete on the national stage by investing in people, places, and possibilities,” Buckhorn said. “What I’m most proud of is that Tampa emerged not only stronger, but more inclusive, resilient, and confident in its future.”
As an executive with Shumaker, Buckhorn continues to lead for the region, providing communications strategy, public affairs consulting and business development services to clients. His practice focuses on economic and urban development opportunities and strategy, intending to enhance the quality of life for all residents in the Tampa region.
“Bob’s commitment to Tampa has never wavered. From shaping policy and supporting local initiatives to guiding the next generation of leaders, he shows us every day that true leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about service, vision, and leaving a lasting impact,” Shumaker Advisors Florida President and CEO Ron Christaldi said.
The TBBW Apogee Awards recognize C-suite leaders who stand out for their creative visions, innovation and dedication to their fields.
Buckhorn was honored at TBBW’s awards event on Sept. 17.
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