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Since 2011, the Gulf Coast CEO Forum has served as a resource for and by our region’s business leaders. As Southwest Florida continues to grow, the Forum remains committed to fostering the local business community by creating opportunities for leaders to collaborate and learn from one another.
Vladimir Ljesevic, Managing Partner and Co-founder of CMPSE, has been a member of the Gulf Coast CEO Forum for three years. He also serves on the board of Tickets for Kids and is the co-founder and treasurer of the local nonprofit Sarasota Tech. In this exclusive Q&A, he shares a glimpse into his experience with the Gulf Coast CEO Forum.
Q: Can you tell us more about your role with CMPSE?
A: I’m a managing partner and co-founded the company with Dan Forno in 2021, right here in Sarasota. We’re a technology consulting firm that transforms small and mid-market companies through AI, software, and data solutions. We work with organizations across eight different states, but our primary focus is the Florida market. Our clients operate in a wide range of industries, including real estate, insurance, manufacturing, healthcare, retail, automotive, and more.
Q: How does CMPSE differ from other consulting companies in the area?
A: We don't just build technology; we architect business transformation. Our team combines deep business expertise with cutting-edge AI and software to deliver performance improvements that directly impact a company's top and bottom lines. We have taken our experience delivering these kinds of solutions and transformations for large-scale Fortune 500 companies and are now bringing that expertise to growth-minded small and mid-market businesses.
Q: How has the Gulf Coast CEO Forum helped you and your business?
A: First, it brought me closer to our local community by connecting me with other leaders who are making a real impact. It also created what I would call an unofficial board of advisors. I have built friendships and connections through the Forum that I can turn to for guidance. The roundtable format has been especially helpful. It gives me a place to share business challenges and hear how others have faced and overcome similar issues—what worked, what did not, what to watch out for, and what to avoid.
Q: What would you tell others who may want to join the Gulf Coast CEO Forum?
A: I would say it is the best investment you can make, both in the short term and the long term, especially if you truly want to be part of the local leadership community and help drive the momentum we’ve been building in Sarasota for years. It’s a no-brainer.
Q: In December, the Gulf Coast CEO Forum is hosting a Big Event featuring Jesse Itzler. What are you most looking forward to?
A: I’m most looking forward to Jesse’s energy. I’m a huge fan of his and am excited that the CEO Forum is bringing in someone of his caliber. I know he’ll get everyone fired up and will share some incredible insights.
For more information about membership or sponsorship with the Gulf Coast CEO Forum, contact Rene Hebda, Executive Director, at [email protected], or visit www.gulfcoastceoforum.com.