Meet Nicole
Candidate for County Commissioner, District 4, Hillsborough, FL
Nicole Payne is a dedicated community leader, an accomplished financial expert, Managing Partner of Kennico Investments, LLC and co-founder of the lifestyle brand, Winederlust.wine. She is now bringing her wealth of experience and passion for service to her candidacy for County Commissioner in District 4, Hillsborough, FL.
With over two decades in the financial sector, Nicole has a proven track record of fostering economic growth and innovation. At Kennico Investments, she has successfully led initiatives that have created jobs, supported small businesses, and driven sustainable development within the community.
She has an undergrad from Bryant & Stratton College in Business Administration, an MBA and is a doctoral candidate at South University. She is married to Army Veteran Ken Payne for 18 years and is a proud supporter of military families.
In addition to her professional achievements, Nicole is an adjunct professor, teaching business management courses that cover international marketing, monetary theories, and banking systems and managerial finance both here in Tampa and in Germany. Her academic role allows her to share her extensive knowledge and experience with the next generation of business leaders, further contributing to the community's growth and development.
Nicole is passionate about improving the quality of life for all residents of District 4. Her campaign focuses on key issues such as enhancing public safety, improving infrastructure & transportation, promoting affordable housing along with competitive wages, and expanding access to quality education and mental healthcare. Nicole believes in the power of community engagement and is committed to ensuring that the voices of all residents are heard and represented in the county government.
As a proud resident of Hillsborough County, Nicole has been actively involved in various community organizations and volunteer efforts. She is serving as the President of the Hillsborough County Black Chamber of Commerce. She is known for her collaborative approach, bringing together diverse groups to address common challenges and create positive change.
Nicole Payne is running for County Commissioner because she believes in the potential of District 4 and is dedicated to working tirelessly to make it a better place for EVERYONE. With her extensive experience, proven leadership, and unwavering commitment to the community, Nicole is the candidate who will bring effective and compassionate leadership to Hillsborough County.
She has served in the capacity as Assistant to the President of the Urban League, Consultant for non-profit, New Visions-New Ventures, assisting women and minority business owners with business plan writing workshops, access to small business loans and micro lending, Habitat for Humanity, guest speaker for High Schools and Juvenile Detention Centers, Program Development for Junior Achievement, First-Time Homebuyer Educator, and Real Estate Investor.