Her Story
About Sarah
Sarah Ortiz, PACE, is an experienced C-Suite Executive Assistant based in the San Antonio, Texas metropolitan area. She currently serves at CommuniCare, where she provides high-level executive and operational support to the President & CEO and senior leadership team within a healthcare environment. With over 20 years of experience in administrative leadership, she is known for her ability to improve efficiency, streamline communication, and manage complex executive priorities in fast-paced, mission-driven organizations. Her professional journey began in the military, where she served as an Automated Logistical Specialist in the United States Army, building a strong foundation in logistics, structure, and disciplined execution. She later transitioned into healthcare and administrative support roles, developing extensive experience supporting executives, managing events, and coordinating organizational operations. Across her career, she has consistently demonstrated adaptability, discretion, and a proactive approach to problem-solving and leadership support. In addition to her corporate career, Sarah is a certified Professional Administrative Certification of Excellence (PACE) holder through the American Society of Administrative Professionals and serves as a Texas Commissioned Notary Public. She is also an entrepreneur, running a creative small business called Beyond The Design, where she produces custom crafts and personalized designs. Her professional path reflects a blend of military discipline, executive-level expertise, and creative entrepreneurship, all centered on service, leadership support, and operational excellence.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Sarah
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my strong work ethic, being resilient, and being adaptable. I've not only worked in the healthcare industry, but been in the military and worked in the logistics industry, so you kind of have to adapt to those different types of environments. As an Army Veteran, single mother, and professional who has spent more than 20 years supporting executive leadership, my success hasn't been built overnight. It's the result of showing up consistently, solving problems, and continuing to grow through challenges.
I've been very fortunate to work alongside some great leadership that have trusted me, even when I didn't trust myself, with different opportunities, and they've pushed me outside my comfort zone. Whether supporting a CEO and executive team, managing complex projects, or building my own creative business, I've learned that success comes from being dependable, staying curious, and never being afraid to take on something new. It's worked out in my favor and I've been very blessed over the years.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've received is: "Don't wait for permission to add value."
Titles are important, but influence is earned through action. Early in my career, I realized that some of the most impactful contributions happen behind the scenes. By anticipating needs, finding solutions, and consistently delivering results, you can become an invaluable part of any organization regardless of your title.
That advice taught me to focus less on position and more on impact.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Believe in your abilities, speak up, and don't underestimate the value of your perspective.
Many women find themselves in rooms where they may be the youngest person, the only woman, or the only minority. I've experienced that throughout my career, and I've learned that your voice belongs in those spaces just as much as anyone else's.
Seek mentors, ask questions, continue learning, and don't be afraid to advocate for yourself. Confidence doesn't come from knowing everything, it comes from trusting that you can learn, adapt, be teachable/coachable and overcome challenges along the way.
YOUR VOICE MATTERS!
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in executive support and organizational leadership is the growing recognition that strategic administrative professionals are more than support staff, they are business partners who help drive organizational success.
Today's leaders rely on trusted professionals who can manage priorities, improve processes, coordinate across departments and help organizations operate efficiently. As technology continues to evolve, there is also tremendous opportunity for professionals to leverage automation, AI, and digital tools to create more value and focus on higher-level strategic work.
The challenge is ensuring organizations continue to invest in developing and recognizing the talent that helps keep businesses moving forward behind the scenes.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, service, accountability, and compassion.
I believe in doing what you say you're going to do, treating people with respect, and leaving things better than you found them. Those values were reinforced during my military service and continue to guide me today as a professional, entrepreneur, mother, and community member.
I also believe success means very little if you don't bring others along with you. Whether I'm supporting leaders, mentoring others, serving clients through my business, or supporting my family, I strive to lead with authenticity, kindness and a commitment to helping others succeed.
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