Carlton Fields’ Gary Sasso Recognized Among Tampa Bay Business Journal’s 2026 Most Admired CEOs

TAMPA, FL – Carlton Fields president and CEO Gary Sasso has been named to one of Tampa Bay's “Most Admired CEOs” by the Tampa Bay Business Journal. Sasso is one of only 10 leaders honored with this distinction, which recognizes CEOs whose influence extends beyond their organizations through leadership, vision, and impact across the region.

To identify this year's honorees, the Tampa Bay Business Journal turned to its 2026 Power 100, who were asked to identify up to three local CEOs they most respect. An internal editorial panel reviewed and weighed those responses to determine this year's recipients.

Sasso is a prominent leader in the legal industry, known for his strategic vision and dedication to outstanding client service. Under his leadership, Carlton Fields has achieved continuous growth while fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence. Beyond his role at the firm, Sasso has held key positions with the Leadership Council on Legal Diversity, the American Law Institute, and the Florida Council of 100, where he leads economic initiatives across the state. His community involvement includes leadership roles with Tampa’s Straz Center for the Performing Arts, the Tampa Bay Partnership, and United Way Suncoast.

His contributions have earned him national and regional recognition, including selection as a six-time member of the Tampa Bay Power 100, repeated recognition in The Best Lawyers in America, and multiple multiyear honors from Florida Trend, including its Notable Managing Partners, Legal Elite Hall of Fame, and Florida 500 list recognizing the state's most influential business leaders.

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