News & Events

The following interview is reprinted with permission from the January 2024 issue of the Professional Services Marketing Journal (PSMJ) newsletter.

Member Spotlight

Name: Bob Belitz
Position: President & CEO
Firm: Tighe & Bond, Inc.
Years in A/E/C Industry: 23

PSMJ: What has been the biggest challenge in your career so far?

Bob Belitz: One of the biggest challenges as a leader is navigating an organization through change and uncertainty. In my time in the AEC industry, the two biggest examples of this were the recession of 2009 (at a prior firm) and the pandemic. I was relatively new to my respective roles when both of these events happened, so demonstrating sound decision-making skills and leadership was essential. Coming out of the pandemic, the follow-on challenge was adapting our business model and changing the way we worked while retaining all the qualities that had made our business successful for many years.

PSMJ: What is a key tip you could provide to an emerging leader?

Belitz: Walk the talk: model leadership behavior and live your firm’s values. Know that your team and your organization are listening, watching, and will follow your example. Also, be a good listener – take in different perspectives and be open to change.

PSMJ: What’s your favorite moment of your career so far?

Belitz: Among many, having the opportunity to ascend from CFO to CEO at Tighe & Bond ranks as my favorite moment. Our firm has been in existence for over 110 years (113 this year to be exact!) and only 8 individuals prior to me have had the honor of leading our organization. Over the last five years, there have been several other exciting moments and we look forward to many more as part of our growth in the market.

PSMJ: Who or what inspired you in your career?

Belitz: I can’t pinpoint one person, but I have been fortunate to work with and for numerous great leaders, all who had different styles. I feel I was able to take these best qualities from many others and make it my own. This applies also for behaviors you don’t want to model!

PSMJ: Guilty Pleasure: What can you not live without?

Belitz: While I don’t have many guilty pleasures, one thing I’d really miss are the trips I take with my family to watch live sporting events in different cities across the country. It’s a great way to combine a passion for sports and spending time with family.

PSMJ: Future prediction: What is coming in the industry within the next 10 years?

Belitz: I believe the increased use of technology and an enhanced focus on sustainability/resiliency are here to stay. I am also keeping an eye on different types of firms entering our industry through acquisitions and/or equity investments.