Leonel Marines is an experienced leader known for his public service and community impact. As the executive director of Epilepsy Services of Southwest Florida, Leonel Marines oversees organizational strategy, fundraising, and daily operations while ensuring compliance with state regulations. His work includes donor engagement, supervising grant writing, and delivering performance updates to the board. He truly enjoys contributing to his community by serving individuals and families affected by epilepsy.
Before working at Epilepsy Services of Southwest Florida, Leonel Marines was a plumber’s helper with Kings Certified Plumbing for three years, and before that, he worked in law enforcement with the City of Bradenton Police Department. He was in law enforcement for over 12 years. Starting as a patrol officer, he rose through the ranks to detective and patrol sergeant. His tasks as patrol sergeant included handling complex investigations, supervising officers, and providing guidance on critical incidents. This experience shaped his strengths in leadership, team management, conflict resolution, and crisis management.
In addition to his professional roles, Leonel Marines has contributed as a substitute teacher at Hillsborough County. He volunteers as an ESL instructor at Project Light and a scholarship reviewer for the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. Leonel Marines earned his JD from Western Michigan University and holds bachelor’s degrees in criminology and political science from Florida State University.