Nina Lopez-Ortiz
Nina Lopez-Ortiz is an operations professional, educator, and PhD candidate whose career bridges the worlds of business operations, editorial work, and higher education. Currently serving as Operations Manager at SHAY CPA P.C., she specializes in optimizing workflows, strengthening client relationships, and leading strategic content and brand initiatives for a growing firm. Known for her ability to bring structure to complex projects, Nina combines analytical thinking with strong communication skills to ensure that operational systems support both creative and business goals.
Earlier in her career, Nina developed a strong foundation in publishing and editorial work, collaborating with authors to refine manuscripts and shape compelling narratives. Over time, her role expanded into operations, marketing, and team leadership, where she built and improved internal systems, coordinated cross-functional teams, and implemented strategies that increased audience engagement and client retention. Her background in storytelling and editorial strategy continues to inform her approach to business operations, allowing her to align organizational processes with clear and impactful messaging.
In addition to her professional work, Nina is deeply committed to education and scholarship. She serves as an Adjunct Lecturer at the City University of New York–Herbert H. Lehman College, where she teaches first-year composition and helps students develop strong writing and critical analysis skills. She is also pursuing a PhD in English Language and Literature at the CUNY Graduate Center, building on her master’s degree from Queens College. Through both her academic and professional work, Nina brings a thoughtful, collaborative approach to leadership, emphasizing clarity, sustainability, and the power of well-crafted communication.
• Canva for Work
• Marketing with Canva
• The Graduate Center, City University of New York
• Queens College
• Phi Beta Kappa
• Queens College Transfer Honors Program
• Crazy Paws Rescue
• Guide Dogs for the Blind
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
When it comes to operations, the one thing you always have to be prepared to do is do something different. While every day kind of has its repetitive work, no day looks the same, and you have to be willing to welcome that. You're not going to get bored. A person who has the personality to be a Jack or Jill of all trades fits really well into an operations role. You need to be flexible and ready to adapt to whatever comes your way each day.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Some of the challenges in operations right now are market growth and the fact that a lot of the roles are being taken up by AI. Everyone is needing to learn AI at a pretty fast pace to adapt and support their roles as some of the departments are shrinking. It's a significant shift that's affecting how we work and what skills we need to stay relevant in the field.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I would say dedication is one of the most important values I bring from my personal life into my work. When it comes to astrology, I am a Cancer, and being a supportive person is a strong personality trait that helps me day-to-day. Being someone willing to do a lot for the people around me means that the job gets done and business keeps moving. That ability to support my team and be there for them is something I carry with me in everything I do.
Locations
SHAY CPA P.C.
Bronx, NY 10475