Co-Chairman, Converge:Transport
Ron Bilbao is a passionate public affairs professional and skilled political operator who has spent over 15 years making a difference working at the intersection of tech and politics at all levels of government. Throughout his career, Ron has served as a trusted advisor to CEOs and C-level executives, to mayors and state legislators, and to political candidates and campaigns, including U.S. presidential races.
To win for his clients, Ron combines smart media strategy, savvy public relations, and innovative campaign tactics along with an established record of community building and stakeholder organizing. From leading the global public affairs efforts for a billion-dollar parking and logistics company, to managing one of the largest state legislative campaigns in Florida history, Ron’s unique background has positioned him to navigate the diverse political challenges that businesses face today.
Ron has a track record of policy victories across the U.S. and Canada, working with officials in Central and South America, as well as in markets in Western Europe. His strategic leadership led to the passage of milestone legislation in several major North American cities, including the first ghost-kitchen legislation in the United States. In addition to his corporate work, Ron has worked for some of the nation’s largest, most reputable advocacy organizations including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and the National Education Association (NEA). His broad policy and legislative expertise encompasses issues relating to transportation, mobility and logistics, healthcare, education, labor, civil rights, elections, and criminal justice. He is passionate about social justice and has served as a Founder and Board Member of several non-profits, including the Carolina Latino Center at UNC Chapel Hill, SAVE LGBT, and the Florida Immigrant Coalition.
Ron’s efforts have been widely recognized: he was named one of Miami’s “Leaders of the Future” by LatinoLeaders Magazine and one of the “30-under-30 Rising Stars” in Florida Politics. In 2022, he completed Harvard Kennedy School’s program for senior executives in government alongside elected leaders from across the globe. Colleagues and clients have praised Ron’s skills, compassion, and strategic vision, with one describing him as “a thoughtful strategist, cross-functional bridge-builder, and inspiring storyteller who puts people and purpose at the center of all that he does.”
Outside his work, Ron stays active and outdoors, participating regularly in endurance races, including marathons and Ironman events. He lives in Miami Beach with his wife Maria and Siberian husky Lola.
