Travis Stephenson
Sandpoint,ID
Summary
Results-driven operations professional with over a decade of leadership experience in both ski resort and maritime tourism industries. Proven success in business turnaround, strategic planning, and delivering exceptional guest experiences. Skilled in financial management, regulatory compliance, and team development. Holds a U.S. Coast Guard Captain’s License and demonstrates a strong record of success through safety, building strong relationships and leading successful teams.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Salt Water Operations Manager / Lead Captain
Talon Lodge
05.2014 - Current
- Oversee all saltwater operations for a premier luxury fishing and adventure resort, ensuring safety, efficiency, and guest satisfaction in an often dynamic and high pressure environment.
- Guide private and group fishing excursions as a USCG Licensed Captain, providing expert navigation, instruction, coordinating and planning of daily excursions tailored to guest preferences, weather/ocean conditions, logistical considerations and guest tolerance levels.
- Administer budgets, procurement, allocation of resources for cost-effective and fully prepared operations.
- Collaborate with ownership on compliance, long-term strategy, and process improvements.
- Maintain full compliance with U.S. Coast Guard and environmental safety standards.
- Manage vessel scheduling, preventative maintenance program, emergency maintenance protocols, crew coordination and training.
General Manager
Ski Bluewood
09.2010 - 04.2013
- Led the successful turnaround of a previously failing ski area as part of a new management team.
- Directed all aspects of resort operations including guest services, lifts, mountain safety, snow removal/grooming, food & beverage, marketing, group sales, ski school, rentals, retail and facilities.
- Oversaw financial recovery, budgeting, planning, vendor and community relationships.
- Completed a comprehensive Master Development Plan for the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) to guide long-term resort growth and compliance.
- Managed and ensured compliance with the USFS Special Use Permit, adhering to federal environmental and operational regulations.
- Organized and led periodic investor meetings, presenting financial performance, development progress, and strategic goals.
- Recruited, trained, and managed seasonal staff to improve morale, performance, and guest satisfaction.
- Partnered with ownership, investors, and public entities to align business and community goals.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
Central Washington University
Ellensburg, WASkills
- Resort & Matitime Operations Management
- Business Turnaround & Strategic Leadership
- Financial Oversight & Investor Relations
- Regulatory Compliance (USFS, USCG, Environmental)
- Maritime Navigation & Safety Management
- Staff Recruitment, Training & Leadership
- Guest Relations & Customer Experience
- Budgeting & Resource Optimization
- Process Improvement & Operational Efficiency
- Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
Certification
U.S. Coast Guard Licensed Captain (Active)
Languages
Portuguese
Limited Working
Timeline
Salt Water Operations Manager / Lead Captain
Talon Lodge
05.2014 - Current
General Manager
Ski Bluewood
09.2010 - 04.2013
Bachelor of Science - Business Administration
Central Washington University