Marco T. Paredes, Jr. Joins Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops as Associate Director for Health

TALLAHASSEE, FL – Effective today, Marco T. Paredes, Jr. joins the Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops (FCCB) as associate director for health. His primary responsibility is to serve as a representative of the bishops on issues pertaining to access to health care, freedom to serve and end-of-life care before the legislative and executive branches of government and community organizations. He will also work closely with staff and directors in Florida's seven Catholic dioceses through the activities of the health desk and committees of the FCCB. Paredes succeeds Michael J. McQuone who retired on June 30.
 
“We are pleased that Marco has chosen to bring his talents and expertise to the FCCB. His deep knowledge of the health care industry and government relations will be of great help as he advocates for policies that ensure broad access to care and solid health policies for Floridians,” said Michael B. Sheedy, executive director, Florida Conference of Catholic Bishops.
 
Paredes is a seasoned professional who has served for over a decade in government relations in the health care industry. Most recently, since 2016, he was vice president, regional government affairs for Magellan Health where he led state government affairs initiatives across all lines of business in health care and pharmacy for the southern region. From 2013-2016, Paredes served as director, Office of Legislative Planning for the Florida Department of Health. Additionally, he has held government relations positions with Amgen and Miami Children’s Hospital. Paredes has extensive experience in analyzing and influencing state policy and regulation, as well as establishing and maintaining key relationships with state lawmakers, regulators and advocates.
 
Paredes received a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Miami and a Juris Doctorate from Georgetown University Law Center. Paredes, his wife Cristina, and their two sons reside in Tallahassee and are parishioners at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church.