Austin Young Chamber Names Joana Ortiz as President and CEO
Ortiz brings over 10 years of economic and workforce development, DEI best practices, and leadership experience to the Austin Young Chamber. She was chosen by the Austin Young Chamber’s Board of Directors after an extensive search process.
“As our city continues to navigate exponential growth while recovering from a pandemic, I cannot think of a better organization poised to tackle the opportunities and challenges of our city than the Austin Young Chamber. With young professionals making up an approximate third of the population, I am honored to continue the incredible work of the board and my predecessor and her team with urgency and hope,” Ortiz said. “In this role, my priorities will always lie in listening to the needs of our young professionals, building economic opportunities for long-time or new residents alike, and ensuring the voices of this demographic are heard where key decisions are made. As a native Austinite and fellow young professional, it is my privilege to lead the Austin Young Chamber into its next chapter.”AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin Young Chamber today announced it has named Joana Ortiz as President and CEO, effective June 6. The Austin Young Chamber represents a membership base of over 900 young professionals and a network of over 30,000 in Central Texas. The Young Chamber offers programs to support business and career growth, fosters partnerships and collaborations for regional impact, and represents the voice of young professionals in policy.
Ortiz brings over 10 years of economic and workforce development, DEI best practices, and leadership experience to the Austin Young Chamber. She was chosen by the Austin Young Chamber’s Board of Directors after an extensive search process.
Most recently, Ortiz served as a research consultant for Grads of Life (YearUp). At Grads of Life, she researched, wrote case studies, and edited a report on evidence-based DEI practices for Fortune 500 employers. Ortiz also has previous experience with the Boston Women’s Workforce Council where she collaborated with the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce on the launch of their first Millennial festival. Since returning to Austin, Ortiz’s community involvement includes serving as a current board director at the Austin Rosewood Community Development Corporation (ARCDC).
“I am thrilled to have Joana join the Austin Young Chamber as our next CEO. She brings a wealth of experience and passion for our community that is infectious. Her leadership and vision will continue to expand the impact that the Austin Young Chamber has on developing Central Texas’ young professionals, into the dynamic business and community leaders we need, today and in the future,” said Adam Steele, Austin Young Chamber Board Chair.
“As our city continues to navigate exponential growth while recovering from a pandemic, I cannot think of a better organization poised to tackle the opportunities and challenges of our city than the Austin Young Chamber. With young professionals making up an approximate third of the population, I am honored to continue the incredible work of the board and my predecessor and her team with urgency and hope,” Ortiz said. “In this role, my priorities will always lie in listening to the needs of our young professionals, building economic opportunities for long-time or new residents alike, and ensuring the voices of this demographic are heard where key decisions are made. As a native Austinite and fellow young professional, it is my privilege to lead the Austin Young Chamber into its next chapter.”
Ortiz earned a bachelor’s degree from St. Edward’s University and a master’s in Public Administration from Harvard University. To meet her and learn more about the Austin Young Chamber, join Ortiz at an evening networking event on June 16 and a morning networking event on June 22. Details can be found at austinyc.org/events.
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About Austin Young Chamber
The Austin Young Chamber supports the Central Texas business community through initiatives and efforts designed to build and strengthen a diverse young professional workforce. Connect with the Austin Young Chamber on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, or Twitter or check out upcoming programs at austinyc.org.
