Former Florida Senate President Tom Lee Named CEO of Pepin Family Office
The Pepin family’s long-standing commitment to strengthening Tampa Bay is taking a significant new step.
Business leader and philanthropist Tom Pepin has officially launched the Pepin Family Office and selected longtime friend and former Florida Senate President Tom Lee to lead it as Chief Executive Officer.
For Pepin, the choice was easy. Tom Lee isn’t just a respected leader across Florida — he’s someone who deeply understands family, community, and the responsibility that comes with both.
“As we continue to build on our family’s financial and philanthropic endeavors, Tom Lee brings a focused and strategic approach to foster innovative partnerships and drive measurable change in our business and our community,” said Tom Pepin. “As a close friend for several decades, I know Tom Lee also shares a deep understanding of family and community service that will help us achieve our altruistic goals.”
Lee is no stranger to leadership. He spent 18 years representing the Tampa Bay area in the Florida Senate, including serving as Senate President from 2004 to 2006. His decision to step into this role reflects a continuation of his lifelong commitment to serving the community.
“I have devoted much of my professional life to public service out of love for this community,” said Tom Lee. “The Pepin Family and I share a deep commitment to preserving and enhancing our community’s quality of life for future generations. I am excited to join the Pepin Family as they continue to play a key role in the Tampa Bay business and philanthropic landscape.”
Those who know Lee say his heart for service is what stands out most. “I have known Tom for more than 20 years, and he has an unwavering drive to make a difference in the lives of others,” said former Florida House Speaker Will Weatherford. “His leadership continues to inspire and uplift those around him, and his legacy of impact in our community will continue as he works with the Pepin Family.”
In his new position, Lee will work closely with Tina Pepin, Executive Director of the Pepin Family Foundation, helping guide both the family’s business strategy and its deep-rooted philanthropic efforts. Over the years, the Foundation has helped shape the region through initiatives like Pepin Heart Institute, Pepin Academies for students with learning disabilities, and a growing focus on the mental health and wellness of first responders.
Together, the Pepin Family Office and Pepin Family Foundation are positioned to broaden their reach — strengthening businesses, fostering innovative partnerships, and creating meaningful, lasting change across Tampa Bay.
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