Octiavia Ortiz
Octiavia Ortiz is a seasoned Human Resources leader with over 15 years of experience, currently serving as Vice President of Human Resources for Sisley Paris in the U.S. and Canada. Throughout her career, she has specialized in the cosmetics and beauty industry, contributing to brands such as Moria Pacific, Malin & Goetz, and Sisley Cosmetics. Octiavia brings a unique blend of corporate and union HR experience across nonprofit, manufacturing, and luxury sectors, with a proven track record in organizational transformation, talent management, compensation, and operational efficiency. She is recognized for her problem-solving abilities, having successfully streamlined HR systems and resolved long-standing employee relations issues early in her leadership roles.
Octiavia’s professional philosophy emphasizes the integration of people-focused strategies with data-driven insights to enhance employee experience and drive business performance. She oversees all HR functions for the U.S. and Canada subsidiaries and supports the broader Americas region, splitting her time between office work, field visits, and strategic operational initiatives. Her leadership approach prioritizes uplifting teams, fostering professional development, and creating practical solutions that remove productivity barriers while aligning HR strategies with overall business goals.
A committed lifelong learner and advocate for leadership development, Octiavia recently completed the Women's Leadership Program at the Yale School of Management. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication from Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus, and is an active participant in professional organizations such as SHRM and CEW. Beyond her professional work, Octiavia volunteers for causes including animal welfare, mental health, child welfare, and civic engagement, reflecting her dedication to community impact alongside her corporate responsibilities.
• Women's Leadership Program
• Workplace Mental Health Ally
• Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus - B.A.
• SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management)
• CEW (Cosmetic Executive Women)
• SuitUp Program - Supporting underprivileged high school students
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to adaptability, resilience, and a strong commitment to continuous learning, especially as I entered human resources without a formal background. Graduating during the 2008 financial crisis, I navigated a series of contract roles that ultimately strengthened my perseverance and ability to adapt until I found long-term stability.
Mentorship has been instrumental in my growth, with leaders and personal influences guiding and shaping my career path. I’ve also remained proactive in developing my skills, including completing the Women’s Leadership Program at Yale School of Management. While I take pride in recognizing others, I’ve learned the importance of acknowledging my own growth, which has strengthened my confidence and leadership.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to be intentional about the environments and leaders I choose to learn from. My career has been shaped by the organizations I’ve been part of—particularly fast-paced, family-owned, and global businesses—where I’ve gained invaluable experience by observing strong leadership, adapting quickly, and embracing new challenges.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to stay curious, take initiative, and not let your academic background define your potential. Success comes from being adaptable, seeking out opportunities, and continuously expanding your knowledge and experience. Embrace challenges as chances to grow, and always be willing to learn from those around you.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in HR today include navigating the uncertainty of the political and economic environment, which affects businesses and can create anxiety for employees about job security. Mental health awareness is another critical challenge, as HR often serves as the first point of contact, yet most HR professionals are not licensed to provide therapeutic support, making it essential to balance care with appropriate boundaries. Lastly, the rapid rise of AI presents both a challenge and an opportunity—adapting quickly is crucial, as those who don’t risk falling behind in a rapidly evolving workplace.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
In both my work and personal life, I value growth, integrity, adaptability, and continuous improvement. I’m committed to developing people and systems while upholding accountability and professionalism in everything I do.
Outside of work, I’m passionate about traveling, hiking, and spending time with my family and pets. Maintaining balance is important to me, and I prioritize experiences that allow me to recharge, explore, and enjoy life fully.