Long before the sun rises over The Regent event venue in Riverview, one staff member is already moving through the quiet halls, preparing the building for another full day of community events. For more than 15 years, facilities team member Zoran Pavic has been one of the venue’s most dependable and recognizable faces — a steady presence whose work helps keep one of the region’s busiest event centers running smoothly.
Pavic, originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina, came to the Tampa Bay area in 1998, bringing with him a background in plumbing and electrical work. That experience shaped the path that eventually led him to The Regent.
“He did plumbing and electrical in his home country and was able to find work doing those things here, which led him into facility maintenance working for Sodexo, who had the contract for HCC and the Regent when it was built,” said Shannon Keil, president and CEO of The Regent.
Pavic officially joined The Regent’s staff in 2009, and since then colleagues said his reliability and upbeat attitude have become part of the venue’s identity.
“My boss, Shannon, is the best,” said Pavic. “Communication is good, and together we fix things and make it work good for clients and the community.”
His days start early — often before dawn.
“We are busy and have a lot of people at events. I get here at 5:30 a.m. and get rooms ready for the events of that day, sometimes do minor maintenance and check to make sure things are working and ready for event,” said Pavic. “I sometimes go home and come back for the events at night. I take care of the needs of the event and clean up, then come back the next day to do it again.”
Over the years, Pavic has witnessed countless moments inside the venue’s walls, from milestone celebrations to solemn ceremonies. One event stands out.
“We are part of special moments for families, students and members of the community,” said Pavic. “One of my favorites is the Menton Dinner for Black Dagger Hunt Club, an organization for Gold Star families and wounded veterans. We hang a 40 ft. flag that was jumped from Normandy and have a 98-year-old Rosie the Riveter who comes every year. I like to listen to the speakers and see them recognize the soldiers who have been injured.”
To those who work alongside him, Pavic’s presence is more than operational support — it’s a source of calm and consistency. Outside of work, Pavic keeps his priorities simple: spending time with his family, grandkids, wife and dogs.
“I really enjoy time with my family, and a really good bourbon!” he said.
The Regent is located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. For more information, visit www.experiencetheregent.com or call 813-571-2494.
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