Darrick D. McGhee, Sr. is a seasoned leader whose career uniquely bridges public service, executive leadership, and ministry. With more than 25 years of experience in state government and politics, he is widely respected for his strategic insight, leadership acumen, and ability to navigate complex legislative and organizational environments.
He currently serves as Chief Operating Officer of Johnson & Blanton, LLC, where he provides high-level government consulting and strategic guidance. In addition, he is the President and CEO of Strategic Inflection Point, LLC, a professional development firm specializing in executive coaching, leadership development, public speaking, and strategic advisory services.
Mr. McGhee previously served as Director of Legislative Affairs in the Executive Office of Governor Rick Scott, where he led efforts to advance and secure the Governor’s legislative priorities. In this role, he ensured compliance and effectiveness throughout the legislative process while advising senior leadership on key policy and executive matters. He also oversaw legislative affairs directors across state agencies.
His extensive public service career includes senior leadership roles within the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, where he served as Interim Executive Director, Chief of Staff, and Director of Legislative and Cabinet Affairs. Additionally, he held legislative affairs leadership positions within the Florida Departments of Education, Business and Professional Regulation, and Elder Affairs, serving across the administrations of Governors Jeb Bush, Charlie Crist, and Rick Scott.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mr. McGhee is a dedicated pastor and faith leader. He is the Founding Pastor of Bible Based Church in Tallahassee, Florida, established in 2010, and brings more than 26 years of preaching and ministry experience. Prior to founding the church, he served as Associate Pastor at Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church, where he provided pastoral care and led youth, collegiate, and young
adult ministries.
He is also a writer and communicator, producing daily devotionals through his
platform, Meditation Moments by Pastor McGhee, which has encouraged and challenged readers since 2003. Expanding his voice into digital media, he hosts three podcasts: Conversations with The Covenant Brothers , Just the 2 of Us (with his wife), and Leadership Matters , each focused-on faith, relationships, and leadership.
Mr. McGhee is deeply committed to community service and leadership. He currently serves on several boards, including Bible Based Church (ex-officio), The Children’s Movement of Florida, the Florida Education Foundation (where he chairs the Fundraising Committee), and the Florida Gubernatorial Fellows Program. His past service includes chairing the Florida Commission on Human Relations and serving on the Second Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission and the United Way of the Big Bend Board of Directors. His leadership and impact have earned him numerous recognitions, including being named among the most influential figures in Florida politics by INFLUENCE Magazine, a Top 25 Lobbyist by Florida Standard, and recipient of multiple leadership and community service awards.
Mr. McGhee is a proud graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Religion. He is also a devoted husband and father, grounded in faith, family, and service.
Awards and Recognitions:
o Recognized as a Top 25 Lobbyist by Florida Standard (2022).
o Recognized as one of the 150 Most Influential People in Florida Politics by
INFLUENCE Magazine (2022).
o Recognized as a 2020-21 Marquis Who’s Who in America Inductee.
o Recognized as one of the 100 Most Influential People in Florida Politics by
INFLUENCE Magazine (2020).
o Recognized as Education Lobbyist of the Year runner-up in Florida Politics by
INFLUENCE Magazine (2017).
o Awarded the MavPac’s 40 under 40 award.
o Recognized as Golden Rotunda Awards - Executive Branch Lobbyist of the Year.
o Recognized as one of Florida Trend’s 30 Something Making Their Mark – All Star.
o Recognized as the 2019 Earned Legacy Award Recipient from the Innovative
Community Engagement Foundation.
o Recognized as the 2018 Leadership Tallahassee Distinguished Leadership Awards – Leadership Pacesetter.
o Recognized as the 2018 Pastor of the Year by Capitol Outlook.
