Billionaire Profile
Robert Rowling
Global Rank
#417

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Robert Rowling

CEO, Omni Hotels & Resorts
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$8.3B
As of December 2025
Age
72
Source
Hotels, investments
Industry
service
Citizenship
US

Biography

Robert Rowling is an American billionaire businessman, best known as the founder of TRT Holdings, a private investment firm. His source of wealth stems from Hotels and investments. Born in Corpus Christi, Texas, in 1953, Rowling's career began in the oil and gas industry, but he later diversified into hospitality, acquiring Omni Hotels & Resorts in 1996. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated at $8.3 billion. Rowling has also been involved in philanthropy, contributing to various educational and community initiatives.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Robert B. Rowling was born in Corpus Christi, Texas, in 1953. He earned a Bachelor of Arts/Science degree from The University of Texas at Austin and a Doctor of Jurisprudence from Southern Methodist University. Rowling's career began in 1972 when he joined Tana Oil and Gas, his father's company.

Rise to Success

In 1989, Texaco acquired Tana Oil and Gas, which allowed Rowling to establish TRT Holdings. Under his leadership, TRT Holdings acquired Omni Hotels & Resorts, Gold's Gym, and other luxury resorts. A significant achievement was the acquisition of the Amelia Island Plantation Resort in 2010. In 2022, Rowling became CEO of TRT Holdings.

Key Business Strategies

Rowling's business approach has focused on identifying undervalued assets and implementing cost-effective management practices. He diversified the company's portfolio by acquiring undervalued assets and turning them into profitable businesses.

Philanthropy

Rowling has been involved in philanthropy, particularly supporting education and community initiatives. In 2013, he donated $25 million to the University of Texas McCombs School of Business. He has also supported the Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

Career Milestones

1972

Began working at Tana Oil and Gas

Joined his father's company, Tana Oil and Gas.

1989

Founded TRT Holdings

Established TRT Holdings after the sale of Tana Oil and Gas to Texaco.

1996

Acquired Omni Hotels & Resorts

Purchased Omni Hotels & Resorts, a key move in expanding his business portfolio.

2004

Acquired Gold's Gym International Inc.

Expanded the company's fitness portfolio.

2013

Donated $25 million to UT McCombs School of Business

Made a significant philanthropic contribution to the University of Texas.

2022

Became CEO of TRT Holdings

Took on the role of CEO, leading the company's operations.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

University of Texas McCombs School of Business

$25M

Donated $25 million to help fund the construction of a new building at the University of Texas' Red McCombs School of Business.

Healthcare

Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute

$25M

Made a $25 million gift to Southwestern Medical Foundation in support of the Peter O'Donnell Jr. Brain Institute at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""Just tell the truth. It's basic.""

""I've never heard one discussion of a social issue. This is all about fiscal sanity.""

Leadership Principles

Strategic Investment

Identify and acquire undervalued assets.

Operational Efficiency

Implement cost-effective management practices.

Philanthropic Engagement

Support education, community initiatives, and healthcare.

Controversies & Challenges

2009

Resigned from the University of Texas System Board of Regents

Resigned due to a controversy regarding bonuses paid to the UTIMCO investment staff.

2010

American Crossroads Donation

Donation to American Crossroads, a conservative PAC, sparked controversy due to its stance on social policies.