Alina T. Hudak
Keynote
President and CEO of the FIFA World Cup 26 Miami Host Committee
As President and CEO of the FIFA World Cup 26 Miami Host Committee, Alina T. Hudak leads the strategic planning and execution of one of the world’s most prestigious sporting events. In this role, she oversees infrastructure, community engagement, public-private partnerships, and operational logistics, ensuring Miami’s position as a global destination. Drawing from decades of leadership experience, she is focused on delivering an event that showcases the city’s cultural vibrancy, economic strength, and capacity for hosting large-scale events.
Hudak’s career is marked by trailblazing achievements. She made history as the first woman to serve as City Manager of Miami Beach, where her leadership transformed the city into a model of resilience, sustainability, and innovation. During her tenure, she managed key initiatives that spurred a resurgence in tourism, reduced violent crime by double digits, increased property values, and enhanced the city’s infrastructure to combat sea level rise. Her administration implemented a voter-approved $159 million bond to expand cultural venues and public safety initiatives while improving services for the city’s vulnerable populations.
Hudak also managed the city’s response to significant crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the Surfside condominium collapse. She oversaw the city’s phased reopening during the pandemic, the establishment of alternate care facilities, and the rollout of vaccinations for vulnerable residents. During the Surfside tragedy, she coordinated one of Miami Beach’s largest disaster responses, deploying personnel and resources to assist neighboring communities.
Before joining Miami Beach in 2020, Hudak spent over 35 years in Miami-Dade County government, where she rose through the ranks to become the first woman to serve as County Manager. Her portfolio included managing a government of over 27,000 employees and an $8 billion budget, encompassing critical services such as public safety, transportation, housing, and public works. She led responses to major events, including six Super Bowls, the 2016 Zika outbreak, and Hurricane Irma, as well as the county’s largest debris removal effort.
Hudak played a key role in shaping Miami-Dade’s infrastructure, overseeing projects such as the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, the Crandon Park Tennis Center, and extensive procurement reforms. She is widely recognized as a leader in public administration, receiving numerous accolades for her contributions to governance and community development.
A University of Miami alumna, Hudak holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business and public administration. She has served on the university’s Alumni Association Board and is a member of the prestigious Order of the Iron Arrow Honor Society. Beyond her professional achievements, she has been a dedicated advocate for breast cancer awareness, leading efforts to turn Miami-Dade and Miami Beach “pink” every October.
Committed to enhancing quality of life, Hudak has supported initiatives to expand green spaces, improve transportation corridors, and promote community well-being. She serves on the Orange Bowl Committee and has been a board member of Friends of The Underline, a transformative 10-mile linear park project.
Hudak’s dedication to public service extends to her family, with her husband and two daughters also sharing a passion for community and civic engagement. With a career defined by excellence, innovation, and resilience, Hudak continues to set a standard for transformative leadership in Miami and beyond.