Ariel Fernandez is an international business development professional with deep expertise in Cuba-related policy, cross-border commerce, and strategic market entry. He brings a unique blend of public-sector experience and private-sector execution, shaped by nearly three decades working at the intersection of government affairs, economic development, and international trade. 

For 11 years, Fernandez served as a senior aide to Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, the first Cuban-American woman elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. In this role, he gained firsthand experience navigating U.S.–Cuba policy, foreign affairs, and hemispheric relations, while working closely with government officials, private stakeholders, and international partners. This experience provides him with a deep understanding of how public policy shapes economic opportunity, particularly in transitional and post-authoritarian contexts.

Complementing his public-sector background, Fernandez has worked extensively with startups and established companies alike to build supply chains, structure cross-border partnerships, and develop sustainable international business relationships.

He studied International Relations at Florida International University, and currently serves on the Coral Gables City Commission.