The Ruthvens President Brandon Clark Named Chair of the Central Florida Development Council

The Ruthvens President Brandon Clark Named Chair of the Central Florida Development Council

Lakeland, Fla. – October 20, 2026 – The Ruthvens, Central Florida’s warehouse specialists, is pleased to announce that President Brandon Clark has been named Chair of the Board of Directors of the Central Florida Development Council (CFDC), Polk County’s economic development organization. Clark assumed the role on October 1, 2026.

Clark’s appointment reflects The Ruthvens’ longstanding commitment to Central Florida’s growth, business development and community prosperity. As a third-generation, family-run company founded in Lakeland in 1957, The Ruthvens has spent nearly seven decades helping businesses establish roots, expand operations and create opportunities throughout the region.

Through its development and management of industrial, manufacturing and distribution warehouse properties, The Ruthvens play an important role in supporting the businesses that drive Central Florida’s economy. With a portfolio of more than 4.7 million square feet in Polk County, the company works with businesses of all sizes, from locally owned companies to national and international organizations, providing the space and flexibility they need to grow.

“Central Florida has been our home for nearly 70 years, and we believe the success of our business is closely tied to the success of our community,” said Clark. “Serving as CFDC Chair is an opportunity to work alongside business and community leaders to continue attracting investment, supporting existing employers and creating opportunities that benefit the people who live and work here.”

Clark joined The Ruthvens in 2018 as Vice President before becoming President in 2022. He oversees the company’s operations, development, leasing, financing and strategic direction. Under his leadership, The Ruthvens continues to invest in new development and support the evolving needs of businesses throughout the I-4 corridor and greater Central Florida.

Clark’s appointment also continues a family legacy of leadership with the CFDC. His father-in-law, Greg Ruthven, Chairman and CEO of The Ruthvens, previously served as CFDC Board Chair from 2013 to 2014. Greg has long been involved in the economic and civic development of Lakeland and Polk County, helping strengthen relationships between businesses and community organizations to support the region’s continued progress.

“The Ruthvens has always believed that developing Central Florida means more than building warehouse space. It means helping businesses succeed, creating opportunities and investing in the community we call home,” said Greg Ruthven.

“Brandon’s appointment is a meaningful continuation of that commitment, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact he and the CFDC will make together.”

Beyond its real estate and development activities, The Ruthvens remains committed to giving back through civic leadership, charitable partnerships and community involvement. In 2025, the company was recognized by the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce as the Kathleen Munson Quality of Life Champion, honoring its dedication to making Lakeland a great place to live, work and play. In 2026, the Kim & Greg Ruthven Family was named Lakeland Regional Health’s Philanthropist of the Year in recognition of its generosity and impact on the community. The company and its team members continue to support organizations and initiatives that contribute to the quality of life across the region, recognizing that a strong business environment and a thriving community go hand in hand.

As Clark begins his term as CFDC Chair, The Ruthvens looks forward to continuing its work with regional partners to encourage responsible growth, strengthen the local business community and help ensure Central Florida remains a place where businesses and families can thrive.

About The Ruthvens

Founded in Lakeland, Florida, in 1957 by Joe P. Ruthven, The Ruthvens is a third-generation, family-run commercial real estate and development company specializing in industrial, manufacturing and distribution warehouse space. With more than 4.5 million square feet of warehouse space across Polk County, The Ruthvens serves businesses throughout Central Florida, helping companies establish, expand and grow. The company is committed to building lasting relationships with its tenants and investing in the community it has called home for nearly 70 years. For more information, visit www.ruthvens.com.

Media Contact

Kimberly Kirsop The Ruthvens, Inc. kkirsop@ruthvens.com 863-686-3173