Join Better Portland members for a lunchtime panel bringing together local leaders for focused conversations on the issues shaping our city.
Better Portland welcomes Curtis Robinhold
Join us for an engaging conversation with Curtis Robinhold as he shares insights into the Governor's Prosperity Council—its purpose, the recommendations that emerged from the process, and what comes next for Oregon's economic future.
This discussion will explore how the Council's work is shaping strategies to strengthen prosperity across the state, support businesses and communities, and advance economic opportunity. Attendees will gain a better understanding of the Council's recommendations, implementation efforts already underway, and what these next steps could mean for Portland's business community.
12:00 – Moderated conversation by Stephen Green with Curtis Robinhold, Executive Director of the Port of Portland
12:30 – Q&A
Curtis Robinhold serves as the Executive Director of the Port of Portland, a critical hub for trade, transportation, and economic growth in the Pacific Northwest. He joined the Port in 2014 as Deputy Executive Director and took the helm in 2017. The Port, overseen by a nine-member Commission appointed by the Governor, includes three marine terminals, two general aviation airports, and Portland International Airport (PDX).
Under Robinhold’s leadership, the Port of Portland’s 800-member team focuses on strengthening America’s supply chains, growing private-sector jobs, and expanding Oregon’s role in international trade and commerce.
A major component of that vision is PDX Next—a five-year, $2 billion investment in modernizing Portland International Airport. This project is building a state-of-the-art terminal to handle 35 million passengers annually, boosting regional economic output while cutting red tape and improving operational efficiency. Designed with American craftsmanship and energy-conscious upgrades, the new PDX will cut energy usage in half while doubling in size—showcasing innovation without compromising performance.
Before joining the Port, Robinhold served as Chief of Staff to Oregon Governor John Kitzhaber, managing policy and operations with a focus on streamlining government and fostering economic growth. In the private sector, he was CEO of an energy efficiency finance firm and led global operations for BP’s gas-fired power business. He played a key role in expanding American energy expertise into international markets, supporting energy independence and job creation at home.
Robinhold began his public service career advising on natural resource policy for Governor Kitzhaber and Congressman Peter DeFazio, gaining a deep understanding of the balance between environmental stewardship and economic opportunity.
He serves on the boards of the Oregon Business Council and Oregon Public Broadcasting. Robinhold holds a BA from the University of California at San Diego and earned an MBA and a Master of Environmental Management from Yale University.
A native of Eugene, Oregon, Robinhold values outdoor pastimes like fishing, camping, and rafting. He and his wife are raising their two daughters in Portland.