The event celebrated the longstanding economic, trade and cultural ties between the United Kingdom and Central Florida, while recognizing the critical role of the British Consulate and business community in strengthening transatlantic partnerships.

The Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP) and British American Business Council of Central Florida (BABCCF) welcomed business leaders, elected officials, diplomats and community stakeholders to celebrate incoming Consul General of the United Kingdom Keith Scott and thank outgoing Consul General Rufus Drabble during an official ceremony hosted at the Orlando Economic Partnership’s downtown Orlando headquarters.

“The UK is our region’s largest source of foreign direct investment, supporting thousands of jobs and contributing significantly to our economy.”
Tim Giuliani, OEP President and CEO

“We are grateful for Consul General Drabble’s partnership and leadership, and we look forward to working with Consul General Scott as we continue to advance trade, investment and innovation between our two markets,” said Tim Giuliani, OEP President and CEO.

The United Kingdom remains the largest source of foreign direct investment in the Orlando region with 59 UK-owned companies employing more than 13,000 people across Central Florida. The event also highlighted the continued momentum in UK-Florida relations following commitments by Florida and the United Kingdom to increase bilateral trade, encourage two-way investment, reduce barriers to business and strengthen innovation and partnerships.

The program included remarks from OEP leadership, BABC Central Florida representatives and both the outgoing and incoming Consuls General, as well as proclamations recognizing the importance of UK-Florida partnerships from the City of Orlando, Orange County, and The City of Tampa.

“On behalf of the British American Business Council of Central Florida, we extend our sincere gratitude to Consul General Rufus Drabble for his outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to the enduring economic and cultural ties between the United Kingdom and Florida,” said BABCCF President David Lenox. “Throughout his tenure in Florida, Consul General Drabble has strengthened the long ties between the British and Florida business communities. He leaves a lasting impact on all he has met during his four years of making Florida his home. We are delighted to welcome Keith Scott as the United Kingdom’s next Consul General in Florida to lead us in writing the next chapter of one of the most dynamic and productive international business relationships that exists in the U.S.”

“We are excited to introduce Consul General Scott to the vibrant business community across Central Florida and confident his leadership will further expand innovation and investment opportunities, while advancing our nations’ shared transatlantic trade and investment goals.”
BABCCF President David Lenox

Outgoing Consul General Rufus Drabble reflected on the strength of the UK-Florida partnership and the relationships developed during his tenure.

“It’s been a privilege to serve as His Majesty’s Consul General in Florida over the past four years,” Consul General Rufus Drabble said. “During that time, I have seen firsthand the extraordinary strength of the relationship between the United Kingdom and Florida—from trade and investment to innovation, education and cultural exchange, creating lasting opportunities for our people and businesses.

“I am deeply grateful to our partners throughout Central Florida and across the state for their friendship, support and shared commitment to advancing this vital relationship. I leave confident that this partnership is stronger than ever and well positioned for continued growth in the years ahead.”
Consul General Rufus Drabble

Incoming Consul General Keith Scott emphasized the opportunities for future collaboration between the United Kingdom and Florida’s high-growth industries.

“I am honoured to take up the role of His Majesty’s Consul General in Florida and to build on the strong foundations established by my predecessor,” Consul General Keith Scott said.

“The enduring relationship between the United Kingdom and Florida is one of significant economic, commercial and cultural importance, underpinned by shared values and a common ambition for growth and innovation.
His Majesty’s Consul General Keith Scott

“I look forward to working closely with leaders across government, business and academia to further strengthen our transatlantic partnership, and to unlock new opportunities for collaboration, investment and prosperity for our respective communities.”

The event comes as the OEP prepares to participate in the Farnborough International Airshow, where regional leaders will engage with global aerospace and aviation companies to promote the Orlando region as a premier destination for investment, innovation and business expansion.

“The Orlando region’s economic relationship with the United Kingdom extends across advanced manufacturing, aerospace, technology, financial services and many other key industries.”
Tim Giuliani, OEP President & CEO

“As we prepare for Farnborough, we are excited to continue strengthening those connections and showcasing the opportunities that exist throughout Central Florida,” Giuliani said.

About BABC Central Florida
The British American Business Council of Central Florida (BABCCF) is a membership-based organization dedicated to strengthening the economic and cultural relationship between the United Kingdom and Central Florida. The United Kingdom is Florida’s leading foreign investor and one of its largest trading partners; the United Kingdom also is the greatest source of Orlando’s foreign-owned companies. Through advocacy, strategic networking, educational programs, and business development opportunities, BABCCF empowers transatlantic partnerships and fosters a dynamic community of collaboration, innovation, and growth. Committed to promoting bilateral trade and investment, the organization connects British and American businesses while supporting charitable initiatives that create a positive impact throughout the region. Learn more at www.babccf.com.