ROBERT FIX
Bellingham,WA
Summary
Dynamic executive with extensive experience at the Port of Bellingham, excelling in strategic planning and financial analysis. Proven track record in budget management and property acquisition, fostering stakeholder engagement and team development. Successfully led initiatives that secured significant grant funding and enhanced operational efficiency.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Director
Port of Bellingham
Bellingham, WA
03.2012 - 06.2025
- Oversaw Port operations, directing senior leadership and strategic initiatives.
- Led development of annual budgets, capital improvement plans, and comprehensive reports.
- Facilitated board meetings, ensuring compliance with public agency regulations.
- Managed bond issuances for refinancing and various capital projects.
- Negotiated development agreements, acquiring industrial and commercial properties including Bellingham Waterfront District.
- Executed interlocal agreements with municipal and special-purpose governments.
- Advocated for state and federal legislative support along with securing grant funding.
Chief Financial Officer
Port Of Bellingham
Bellingham, WA
07.2008 - 03.2012
- Directed financial planning and analysis for Port of Bellingham operations.
- Developed annual budgets aligned with strategic organizational goals.
- Oversaw cash management processes to maintain liquidity and efficiency.
- Collaborated with department heads on financial forecasts and resource allocation.
- Mentored finance team in accounting practices and compliance standards.
- Recruited, trained, and managed staff responsible for accounting functions.
Partner & Chief Financial Officer
MTM Luxury Lodging & FST Asset Management
Kirkland, WA
05.2003 - 07.2008
- Managed financial reporting, regulatory compliance, benefits, and insurance for hospitality management company.
- Supervised hotel controllers across seven properties; implemented enterprise-wide payroll and accounting systems.
- Directed capital planning and operational reviews, acting as lead asset manager for 11 hotel properties.
- Conducted due diligence for domestic and international acquisitions.
- Oversaw annual budgets, strategic plans, and renovation projects to enhance property value.
Chief Financial Officer – Trillium
Trillium Corporation / Semiahmoo Hotel Company, Inc.
Bellingham, WA
05.1999 - 01.2003
- Directed finance and accounting operations for multinational real estate and timber company.
- Managed lender relationships and refinancing activities with local and international lenders.
- Executed real estate transactions and led joint ventures to expand market reach.
- Oversaw Resort Semiahmoo operations from 9/11 through 2003, ensuring stability during recovery.
Director, Development & Acquisitions
Interstate Hotels, LLC
Phoenix, AZ
06.1998 - 05.1999
- Conducted due diligence, pro forma modeling, and financial analysis for hotel acquisitions and contracts across the Western U.S.
- Cultivated investor relationships and helped shape the Western growth strategy.
Financial Analyst
DoubleTree / Red Lion Corporate Office
Phoenix, AZ
03.1996 - 06.1998
- Underwrote real estate projects and negotiated management/lease agreements.
- Created financial models and board presentations to evaluate investment opportunities.
Controller
Red Lion Hotel
Springfield, OR
01.1994 - 01.1996
Assistant Controller
Red Lion Hotel
Bellevue, WA
01.1993 - 01.1994
Controller
The Roosevelt Hotel
Seattle, WA
01.1992 - 01.1993
Education
B.A. - Hotel and Restaurant Administration
Washington State University
Pullman, WASkills
- Team development
- Financial analysis
- Budget management
- Strategic planning
- Regulatory compliance
- Property acquisition
- Stakeholder engagement
- Effective communication
Leadership Affiliations
- Treasurer, Washington Public Ports Association, 2020–2022
- Chairman, Washington State Hotel & Lodging Association 2006-2008
- Board Member, Pacific Corridor Enterprise Council, 2002
- Commissioner, Blaine Tourism Advisory Council, 1999–2002
- Chapter Secretary, Puget Sound International Association of Hospitality Accountants
- Lecturer, Washington State University (Foreign Exchange Professor Program)
Timeline
Executive Director
Port of Bellingham
03.2012 - 06.2025
Chief Financial Officer
Port Of Bellingham
07.2008 - 03.2012
Partner & Chief Financial Officer
MTM Luxury Lodging & FST Asset Management
05.2003 - 07.2008
Chief Financial Officer – Trillium
Trillium Corporation / Semiahmoo Hotel Company, Inc.
05.1999 - 01.2003
Director, Development & Acquisitions
Interstate Hotels, LLC
06.1998 - 05.1999
Financial Analyst
DoubleTree / Red Lion Corporate Office
03.1996 - 06.1998
Controller
Red Lion Hotel
01.1994 - 01.1996
Assistant Controller
Red Lion Hotel
01.1993 - 01.1994
Controller
The Roosevelt Hotel
01.1992 - 01.1993
B.A. - Hotel and Restaurant Administration
Washington State University