As the sole proprietor of Castle Ridge LLC, Bill Baker is an energetic business executive with a corporate real estate career that spans almost 40 years. His business advisory firm offers proven solutions to complex operation and real estate ‘puzzles’ across all sectors of the industry. His firm offers strategies that are rooted in mutual respect, common sense, and personalized service that includes a nationwide network of industry and business leaders.

Appointed by Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels, after the flood of 2008, to assist with restructuring this quasi-government entity. Responsible, as a member of this local sponsor commission, for completing the construction of and stabilizing the ongoing operation of a $250M Army Corp of Engineers flood control project in NW Indiana. Coordinated the strategic plan for the project’s operation and maintenance for the federal project as well as for the entire Little Calumet River Watershed, which includes the stormwater infrastructure across 17 communities/entities. Assisted in structuring the lobbying effort, at the Indiana General Assembly, and eventual success in providing the project a perpetual funding source for operations and maintenance (enacted 2012).

Regional economic development entity

Happily retired, after 15 years of service, as the Executive Director of Real Estate representing a great organization. Senior executive with overall responsibilities for a multi-market commercial real estate portfolio that includes land, office, retail, industrial and multifamily. Direct involvement with asset and portfolio management, development, transaction services and strategic planning in support of core business. Accomplishments include: • Stabilized property operation and coordinated a uniform management platform.• Implemented a full software roll out that increased management efficiencies across the portfolio. • Coordinated the site acquisition of 156 acres and required entitlement process for the relocation of the worldwide headquarters/manufacturing plant. • Managed the disposition of the vacated 250,000 square foot/17-acre property. • Prepared the structure of the real estate portfolio to assist with the firm’s ESOP transaction.• Procured the sale of a separate 197-unit San Diego County multifamily project for the highest per unit sales price at the time. • Led the team that completed a full renovation of a 124-unit San Diego County multifamily property. • Managed the complete renovation of a 207-unit Porter County multifamily property.• Completed the initial lease up of the commercial multi use development and facilitated the subsequent sale 15 years later. • Client service interaction with all tenants, prospects and vendors.• Represented the firm as a member/guest to numerous economic development and business entities as a part of the community relations initiative. • Urschel Giving member for 2 years.

Corporate real estate assignments with SBC, Chase, Bank of America, Whirlpool, Meade and Roche Diagnostics in numerous markets.Responsibilities range from facility management, site selection, acquisitions/dispositions and management/leasing.Product types includes office, retail, industrial and flex type projects across multiple markets