Karla Ortiz Flores
Director of Technology and Cybersecurity in Chicago, Illinois
I'm Karla Ortiz-Flores – a self-proclaimed "tinkerer," dedicated experimenter, and lifelong learner. My passion lies in harnessing the power of technology to solve complex problems and create meaningful, impactful experiences. I thrive on new challenges and relish opportunities that push me beyond my comfort zone. Pushing boundaries, taking risks, and having fun along the way is my mantra.
Currently, I serve as the Director of Technology and Cybersecurity at a best-in-class multi-family office. In this role, I spearhead initiatives in modern cloud architecture, cybersecurity, and compliance. My responsibilities encompass the development and maintenance of our cutting-edge data infrastructure, ensuring it is robust, secure, and compliant with industry standards. I am also the bridge between our technical teams and clients, providing consultancy and acting as the technical liaison to drive strategic goals.
Before this, I was a Senior Management Consultant for high-growth startups in the life sciences, pharmaceutical, and fintech sectors, including some of Chicago's top unicorns. During my tenure, my team and I transformed these companies into market leaders by leveraging top talent, optimizing processes, and turning data into actionable insights. Our work helped these companies scale rapidly and sustainably.
My professional journey has been a global adventure, taking me to Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. This international exposure has enriched my perspective and honed my ability to navigate diverse business environments. I am fluent in Spanish and conversational in Portuguese, which has been invaluable in my international collaborations.
Beyond my professional endeavors, I am an advocate for lifelong learning and personal growth. Whether it's experimenting with new technologies, participating in hackathons, or engaging with tech communities, I am always seeking to expand my horizons and contribute to the tech ecosystem.
In summary, my career is driven by a passion for technology, a commitment to excellence, and a relentless pursuit of innovation. I am excited about the future and the endless possibilities that technology brings, and I am dedicated to making a lasting impact in the field.