Florida Trend | Florida's Business Authority

Well-Connected

p>MANUEL D. MEDINA, 53
Chairman, CEO / Terremark Worldwide, Miami

The business:
Operates giant network access points in Miami; Madrid, Spain; Sao Paulo, Brazil; and Santa Clara, Calif., helping networks connect. Provides secure space for IT infrastructure along with a range of services. "It's like an airport hub for the digital age."

Big move:
Transformed Terremark from a real estate developer to its current internet infrastructure focus.

Flagship:
NAP of the Americas opened in 2001 in downtown Miami. Fortress-like building was erected to withstand a Category 5 hurricane.

Clients:
The federal government is No.1, generating 24% of revenue. Others include AT&T, Sprint, Florida International University and Miami-Dade County.

Milestone:
Expects positive cash flow from operations this fiscal quarter.

Marketing:
Promoting the NAP of the Americas as a stronghold that can protect crucial data systems against a host of threats, including hurricanes. "After Hurricane Wilma, we had people literally showing up with their servers saying 'hook us up.' "

Hurricanes:
"We're waiting for the big one."

Downtime:
Practices kung fu and tai chi and is an avid tennis player. Adores water sports like diving and fishing. "I have saltwater in my veins."

Helping youth:
Seeks interns from local colleges and universities. "We often hire them. We don't let them get away."