Melissa Smith has been serving in Florida state government for more than 15 years, with an emphasis in policy and budget in both the Legislative and Executive branches. This includes multiple years as a Policy Chief with the Florida House of Representatives before joining the Office of Policy and Budget within the Executive Office of the Governor. While in these roles she oversaw transportation, environment, and public safety portfolios. She joined the Florida Department of Transportation in September of 2023 as the Chief of Modal Development.