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Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce Announces 2025-26 Board Officers & Directors: Madeline Pumariega to Serve as Board Chair, Leading with a Vision for Growth, Innovation, and Impact

MIAMI (June 18, 2025) – The Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce (GMCC), the proud champion for the Greater Miami Business Community and a civic engine powering the Magic City’s progress, is pleased to announce the appointment of its FY2025-2026 Board of Directors Officers.

2025 Goals Conference Board Officers-1Leading the executive committee is Madeline Pumariega, President of Miami Dade College, who will serve as Board Chair. Joining her in executive leadership roles are: 

  • Juan Carlos “JC” Liscano, Vice President of American Airlines’ MIA Operations, as Chair-Elect
  • George Bermudez, Regional Sales Performance Executive, Business Banking, Bank of America, as First Vice Chair
  • Jeff Bridges, Chief Financial Officer, Ten North Group, as Treasurer
  • Hector J. Ponte, South Florida Regional Executive, Wells Fargo, as Immediate Past Chair 

These distinguished leaders bring decades of experience across industries vital to South Florida’s economy. Together, they will guide the Chamber’s priorities, representing more than 400,000 employees and hundreds of businesses of every size and sector. 

“At a time of continued transformation and opportunity in Miami, the Chamber’s leadership remains committed to strengthening our business community through smart strategies, meaningful advocacy, and bold innovation,” said Alfred Sanchez, President & CEO of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce. “Under Madeline Pumariega’s leadership, we will move forward with purpose and unity to advance the Chamber’s vision and deliver real value to our members.” 

As Board Chair, Pumariega will focus on five strategic priorities outlined in the Chamber’s 2030 Strategic Plan: enhancing member experiences, driving business development, strengthening advocacy, embracing innovation, and leveraging technology. Speaking at the Chamber’s 2025 Goals Conference & Annual Meeting of the Members, she outlined a bold vision: 

“We are focused on execution. On delivering measurable results. On being the voice for the business community at every level – city, county, state, and federal. The next chapter of Miami-Dade’s growth will not happen by chance. It will be shaped by leaders in the room and the strength of the Chamber that represents them. We stand ready to lead with focus, purpose and results.” 
— Madeline Pumariega, GMCC Board Chair 

 

Officer Backgrounds: 

Madeline Pumariega, Board Chair 
Pumariega is the first female president of Miami Dade College, one of the largest and most diverse college in the nation. A recognized leader in higher education, workforce development, and civic engagement, she has dedicated her career to student and community success. Her leadership at MDC has positioned the institution as #4 among Top Public Schools-Regional Colleges by U.S. News and World Report and a hub for innovation, talent development, and social mobility.

Juan Carlos “JC” Liscano, Chair-Elect 
Liscano serves as Vice President for American Airlines’ MIA Operations, one of the airline’s largest operations globally. With over three decades of airline management experience, he is responsible for leading a team of nearly 15,000 MIA-based team members and advancing Miami’s role as a key international gateway. 

George Bermudez, First Vice Chair 
Bermudez is a Senior Vice President and Miami Business Banking Market Executive at Bank of America, overseeing the bank’s efforts in community development and client relationships across South Florida. His leadership focuses on economic inclusion, financial wellness, and fostering sustainable growth. 

Jeff Bridges, Treasurer 
Bridges is the Chief Financial Officer for Ten North Group, a nonprofit leader in affordable housing, economic development, and creative placemaking. With a strong background in finance and operations, Bridges ensures fiscal integrity while supporting mission-driven impact across the region. 

Hector J. Ponte, Immediate Past Chair 
Ponte is Senior Vice President and South Florida Region Executive at Wells Fargo, where he leads business operations across South Florida. A dedicated community advocate, Ponte has played an instrumental role in championing small businesses, workforce development, and financial literacy initiatives throughout his tenure

For the full listing of 2025-26 Board members, click here.

 

About the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce is the proud champion for the Greater Miami Business Community and serves as a catalyst for solutions to the problems that businesses face. Founded in 1907 as the Miami Board of Trade, today’s Chamber represents more than 400,000-member company employees and is heralded for its legacy of leadership in economic development, and its unwavering commitment to improving the Miami-Dade community. Our members drive a business agenda at the federal, state, and local levels. We are dedicated to building the best environment for business in the Americas and committed to improving the economic vitality of South Florida. Our advocacy efforts are focused on four main priority areas: Education & Workforce Development, Resilience, Transportation, and Workforce Housing. For more information, please visit www.miamichamber.com.