Governor Scott Names David Wilkins as Secretary of the Florida Department of Children and Families
Jan 18, 2011
Above: David Wilkins
Florida Governor Rick Scott named former Accenture health executive David Wilkins as Secretary of the Florida Department of Chidren and Families today, January 18, 2011.
The Governor’s news release detailing the appointment is reprinted below.
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Governor Scott Names David Wilkins as Secretary of the Department of Children and Families
Tallahassee, Fla. – In his continued focus on providing for the well-being of the children and families of Florida, Governor Rick Scott today appointed David Wilkins as Secretary of the Department of Children and Families.
Wilkins, who also served as a member of Scott’s Good Government Transition Team, brings decades of experience in business and charitable leadership to the agency. He is currently the Finance Chairman of the Florida Baptist Children’s Home, which operates residential care, emergency shelter, adult development services, adoption assistance and foster care in over 15 campuses across Florida. He recently retired as the global managing director of sales for Accenture Health and Public Service business, which operates in over 25 countries and generated sales near $4 billion.
“David’s passion for child care issues and the human services business, along with his decades of management experience in business and charities, will serve this agency well as it protects Florida’s families,” Governor Scott said.
As Secretary of DCF, David will help the Scott Administration further the agency’s purpose of protecting the vulnerable and promoting strong and financially self-sufficient families. His background in business leadership will enable DCF to find innovative and cost-efficient ways to further the protection and care of children, the elderly and the disabled and his extensive charitable background will enable DCF to work with community and faith-based organizations to further the agency’s mission.
Wilkins has been active in other numerous other Tallahassee-area charities for years. He and his wife are active in the United Way and David served on the United Way Community Investment Advisory Board. He also serves on the Board of Directors of the Friends of Mission San Luis.
About David Wilkins
Wilkins has more than twenty years of management experience in charities and large companies. He has been an active member of the Florida Baptist Children’s Home and currently serves as Finance Chairman. The charity operates residential care, emergency shelter, adult development services, adoption assistance and foster care in over 15 campuses across Florida. He recently retired from Accenture after a 29 year career with the company. He was promoted to partner at the age of 32 and served numerous management roles throughout his career, including running the global sales organization of the Accenture Health and Public Service business which operates in over 25 countries and generated sales near $4 billion. Wilkins, his wife, and their three daughters reside in Tallahassee, Florida, and are active in numerous charitable and community organizations, including the United Way, Orphans Heart International, and Bradfordville Baptist Church.
What People Are Saying about Governor Scott’s Latest Appointment:
“I could not be more pleased with Governor Scott’s decision. The unique combination of Secretary Wilkins’ business experience, knowledge of child care, and personal commitment to invest in the lives of children will make him an incredible Secretary of the Department of Children and Families. I have seen the lives of children changed because of the personal involvement of David and Tanya Wilkins as they have shared their family, their home, and their vacations with children who are in need. Secretary Wilkins has fantastic leadership skills and his knowledge of both business enterprise and children’s advocacy will insure Florida has the plans and programs for children to thrive. The children of Florida and the leadership of our State could not be in better hands. Under David Wilkins’ leadership on the Board of Directors at Florida Baptist Children’s Homes, the number of children’s service locations in Florida has grown from nine to seventeen, and the number of children and families served has increased by more than 350%. He was visionary in helping launch a successful international childcare program, and was the co-leader of the CEO Children’s Council.
“Because of Secretary Wilkins’ key leadership and expertise, our 108 year old organization has experienced unprecedented growth and fiscal accountability. His vision, business acumen, and personal involvement with children in need have been pivotal.”
Jerry T. Haag, Ph.D., CFP, President, Florida Baptist Children’s Homes
“David Wilkins is one of the most steadfast people I know. He is tremendously loyal and a great champion for any cause he believes in. Our United Way in Tallahassee has been blessed by David and Tanya’s consistent support and generosity. I believe DCF is getting a wonderful leader.”
Dr. Ken Armstrong, President, United Way of the Big Bend
“Governor Scott’s naming of a private sector executive who is sensitive to the needs of foster children and foster parents as the new Secretary of DCF is great news for Floridians.”
Frances Allegra, CEO, Our Kids of Miami-Dade/Monroe, Inc.