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Rudy Fernandez
Accomplished Executive specializing in Public Affairs, Advocacy and Political Strategy
Rudy Fernandez is currently the Executive Vice President for University Operations and External Affairs and Chief of Staff at the University of Miami.14 He has held various leadership roles at the university since joining in 2007.23
Fernandez's career at the University of Miami includes:
- Executive VP for University Operations and External Affairs and Chief of Staff (June 2023 - Present)3
- Executive VP for External Affairs and Strategic Initiatives and Chief of Staff (January 2022 - June 2023)3
- Chief of Staff to the President and VP for Government and Community Relations (June 2013 - January 2022)3
- VP for Government and Community Relations (February 2007 - May 2013)3
Prior to joining the University of Miami, Fernandez worked in Washington D.C. for a decade, holding positions such as:
- Special Assistant to the President in the George W. Bush White House12
- Deputy Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs at the U.S. Department of Transportation3
- Regional Political Director for the Bush-Cheney '04 campaign3
Fernandez earned a bachelor's degree in government from Harvard University and an MBA from the University of Miami.13 He is a member of Iron Arrow, the highest honor attained at UM, and the Orange Bowl Committee.1
In his current role, Fernandez is responsible for the leadership and strategic direction of various university business units, including Audit and Compliance, Facilities Operations and Planning, Government and Community Relations, and University Communications.1 He works closely with the Board of Trustees, the president, and the chief executive officer to advance organizational excellence across the University's areas of endeavor.1
Fernandez is married to Jennifer, and they have four children.15 He has been living in Miami since he was 10 years old, having been born in Caracas, Venezuela, to Cuban parents.5


