Bob Brillante

Robert John Brillante, an entrepreneur and tireless advocate against racism, was born into a life shaped by both service and innovation. His journey began on a U.S. Army base in Bad Kreuznach, Germany, where his father, Major Orlando E. Brillante, and mother, Alda Brillante, instilled in him values of dedication and resilience.

Relocating to central Florida after his father’s military retirement, Brillante was immersed in the nascent world of cable television. His father’s pioneering efforts in building Florida Cable, the state’s first cable television company, provided the backdrop for Brillante’s formative years. Climbing telephone poles, installing cable boxes, and selling subscriptions door-to-door, Brillante learned the ropes of the business firsthand.

Education became his next frontier. Graduating from Melbourne High School, he pursued higher learning at Florida Technical University, now the University of Central Florida, where he earned dual degrees in business. Amidst his academic pursuits, Brillante cultivated his leadership skills through involvement in various campus organizations and sports teams, including Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity and the Orlando Cyclones football team.

His professional journey commenced with a role at the Florida Cable Telecommunications Association (FCTA), where he quickly rose to prominence as the director of legislative and regulatory affairs. Within two years, Brillante’s dedication and acumen saw him ascend to the position of executive vice president.

Driven by a passion for media innovation, Brillante spearheaded the launch of numerous media-related ventures, including Cable Power, Inc., Media Strategies, Inc. (MSI), and Brillante Enterprises, Inc. (BE). These endeavors not only showcased Brillante’s entrepreneurial spirit but also underscored his commitment to pushing the boundaries of media excellence.

Beyond the boardroom, Brillante’s personal life reflects a commitment to community service and mentorship. Residing in North Florida with his wife, Dana, Brillante devotes his time to mentoring underprivileged youth, championing small business ventures, and advocating for animal welfare.

Brillante’s journey from the cable television trenches to the forefront of media innovation speaks volumes about the power of perseverance and the enduring impact of nurturing roots. As he continues to shape the media landscape, Brillante’s legacy serves as a testament to the transformative power of vision and resilience.