Alexis Lambert is the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Secretary, appointed by Governor Ron DeSantis on Nov. 7, 2024. She followed Shawn Hamilton, who left the department in November and is now Associate Department Manager for Dewberry, a nationwide planning, design, and construction firm.
Below is a Q&A format with Lambert, reflecting on her upbringing, career, and vision for the Department.
Q: TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT YOURSELF AND YOUR UPBRINGING.
A: I am a Tallahassee native, raised in a family that emphasized public service and instilled a deep respect for Florida’s natural environment and the laws that govern it. My parents taught my sister (an environmental lawyer) and me the importance of showing up, working hard, and fostering good relationships. After earning a degree in communications from Mercer University, I began what has become a nearly 20-year career in state government. I have had the privilege of serving in both communications and leadership roles across multiple agencies, gaining a broad perspective on the functions of government and the importance of cross-agency collaboration in delivering meaningful, lasting outcomes.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time outdoors, gardening, cooking and exercising — all of which help to keep me sane. I also enjoy traveling and making memories with my family. I’ve been happily married to my husband, Matt, for more than 15 years, and we are the proud parents of two daughters, Georgia (12) and Evelyn (10). We also share our home with our dog, Sipsey, and our cat, Bella, who both add plenty of energy to our lives.
Q: HOW DID YOU END UP GETTING INTO GOVERNMENT SERVICE?
A: I had the privilege of watching my dad’s service to our state and my mom’s career interacting with state government. Many family dinners were spent discussing their work issues and my sister and I were always encouraged to join in the conversation (or debate). My parents were both lawyers, but my dad advised me to never become a lawyer, so I chose public service instead. He helped me get my first job in state government working as a Public Information Officer at the Department of Community Affairs — he told me the rest was up to me. That first opportunity led to communications roles with several state agencies, including the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, Department of Children and Families, and Florida’s Chief Financial Officer.
These roles taught me the power of words and the importance of relationships. As I transitioned into leadership positions at the Department of Health and the Division of Bond Finance, I gained a deeper appreciation for how policy, operations, and funding decisions influence outcomes for the people we serve. Along the way, I have had the great privilege to work with incredible people who taught me valuable lessons, invested in my career development and fueled my passion and commitment to public service.
Q: WHAT HAS BEEN REWARDING ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE OF STATE WORK?
A: There have been many but one of the most rewarding aspects of my career has been seeing colleagues advance in their careers and make meaningful contributions both within state government and beyond. Being part of that journey, knowing you contributed to their development in some way, is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a reminder that public service isn’t just about policy or programs, but about people and the lasting impact we have on one another.
I also think working in the public sector, specifically in the communications field, gives you a unique opportunity to learn a lot about a large variety of topics. I love learning and being able to learn from experts has been so rewarding; whether it was land use planning, insurance, social services, epidemiology or bonds, I’ve enjoyed learning about it all!
Q: WHAT ABOUT FLORIDA’S ENVIRONMENT DO YOU FIND PARTICULARLY INTERESTING OR CHALLENGING?
A: The diversity in the land and water we are charged with protecting, the laws and regulations that govern it and the breadth of issues that arise from that intersection. From the Everglades to the Panhandle, Florida encompasses a wide range of ecosystems, communities, and environmental issues. Managing such varied landscapes requires tailored approaches, creative thinking and constant adaptation, but it also provides an incredible opportunity to learn, and make a meaningful impact across one of the most ecologically diverse states in the country.
Q: WAS BEING SECRETARY SOMETHING YOU ASPIRED TO?
A: It wasn’t a role I was seeking out, but I’m incredibly honored by the opportunity to serve and grateful for Governor DeSantis’ confidence in me. It’s a privilege to work alongside the exceptional professionals at the Department. Joining a team of such talented individuals has reaffirmed that this was the right decision, and I am humbled by the opportunity to be their leader.
Q: WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU BRING TO THE ROLE THAT MAY DISTINGUISH YOU FROM SOME OF YOUR PREDECESSORS?
A: Well, the obvious is I’m a woman and we haven’t had a female secretary in a while. Beyond the obvious, having worked across several state agencies, I’ve gained a broad perspective on how different parts of government connect and operate. That experience helps me approach the role with a holistic view, which I hope contributes to thoughtful decision-making and more coordinated outcomes.
Q: WHAT IS ONE AREA OF THE DEPARTMENT THAT HAS BEEN SURPRISING FOR YOU TO LEARN ABOUT?
A: One area that’s been more significant than I initially realized is the level of federal engagement. Compared to other state agencies I’ve worked in, the degree of coordination with federal partners — particularly on permitting, regulatory frameworks, and funding — is much more extensive. Navigating those relationships and aligning priorities adds complexity, but it also underscores the importance of FDEP’s role in ensuring Florida’s interests are well represented and effectively managed.
Q: DO YOU HAVE A SPECIFIC VISION FOR WHAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO ACCOMPLISH DURING YOUR TENURE IN THIS ROLE?
A: My goal is to keep the momentum going by advancing the priorities and accomplishments of Governor DeSantis’ administration. Under his leadership, Florida has made historic investments in Everglades restoration, water quality improvements, and coastal resilience. My vision is to build on that foundation — ensuring continued progress through transparent, science-based decision-making and strong collaboration across agencies and stakeholders. Ultimately, I want to ensure we’re protecting Florida’s natural resources in a way that serves both current and future generations.
Q: IS THERE SOMETHING THAT ENVIRONMENTAL FIRMS, EXPERTS, AND VENDORS SHOULD KNOW ABOUT YOU OR THE DEPARTMENT THAT WOULD HELP THEM BE BETTER PREPARED TO SERVE THE DEPARTMENT?
A: What I hope environmental firms, experts, and vendors understand is that I am an honest broker — someone who values transparency, fairness, and collaboration — and I expect the same in return. I believe the best outcomes come from meeting in the middle, where science, policy, and practical solutions align. We welcome working with partners who are committed to the same principles and who come prepared to work collaboratively and constructively to achieve our shared goals.
