Michael Nachef

Chief of Staff, Lee Health

Michael joined the Lee Health team in July of 2016. He has been a member of the Southwest Florida community for more than two decades. In his tenure at Lee Health, Michael has served as Director, System Director, and Vice President of Government Relations. He is now serving in a new senior leadership role as Chief of Staff.  

Leadership Responsiblities

The Chief of Staff advises and collaborates on strategic projects for the CEO. This position resolves problems and ensures the successful implementation of company initiatives. The role supports internal operations as well as representing and speaking for the organization with external constituents. The Chief of Staff leads the Lee Health Government Relations department, working closely with elected officials and their staff on the local, state, and federal levels of government. 

Professional Experience

Michael has over six years of experience working in Florida State government. As a Legislative Assistant with the Florida Senate, he helped to craft legislation and move it through the legislative process. Prior to his work in the Florida Senate, he worked with the office of the University President at Florida Gulf Coast University. 

Education

Michael earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, cum laude, from Florida Gulf Coast University.  

Memberships/Community Involvement

Michael is Chair of the Big Brothers Big Sister of the Suncoast Corporate Board of Directors. He is the immediate past Chair of the Florida Gulf Coast University Alumni Board of Directors and served on the FGCU Foundation Board. He is a graduate of College Leadership Florida and an active member of the Leadership Florida organization. He was appointed by the Governor to serve on the Florida Greenways and Trails Council and served from 2019 to 2022. Michael also serves on the Sanibel Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors as Secretary and Treasurer. Michael serves on the Florida Tax Watch Board of Directors and is a member of the executive committee. 

Michael was recognized as one of the News Service of Florida’s 40 Under 40 Rising Stars in the Sunshine State in 2024. He won the inaugural Naples and Lee Herald Young Professional of the Year Award in 2016 and was named as one of the 40 under 40 by the Naples Herald in 2017. Michael was honored as the 2025 Florida Gulf Coast University Alumni of Distinction.