Rick Ortiz
Retired Colonel Enrique “Rick” Ortiz currently serves as Executive Director, Transformation and Strategy Office, Office of the President in the University of Texas at Austin. In his role, Rick advances strategic plans across the University, spearheads leadership insights and cross-university collaboration, and builds and leads operational teams.
Born and raised in Panama, Rick was commissioned a 2nd Lieutenant in the U.S. Army’s Medical Service Corps following graduation from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) in April 1992 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Aeronautical Science. He is a distinguished graduate from the Army War College with a Master's Degree in Strategic Studies. He also holds a Master’s of Science Degree from ERAU specialized in Aviation Safety and Management.
Rick retired from the Army on 1 Jun 2022 after 30 years of service. His last assignment on active service was as principal deputy to the Chief of Staff at U.S. Army Futures Command (AFC), Austin, Texas - the Army's newest four-star command and first Army Major Command operationalized in more than 40 years, responsible for over 26,000 personnel and an estimated annual budget of $12 Billion. He advised the Commanding General and other AFC Senior Leaders on all matters to advance Army future force modernization.
During his military career, Rick was a CEO to 3 different complex organizations with two of them having more than 1000 employees. He has over a decade of senior executive experience with six years in the politically charged arena of the Pentagon including board-level healthcare experience in the military health system; a $52B worldwide enterprise. His legacy encompasses the creation of the Army’s first and only medical modernization strategy fundamentally modernizing its $12B health system. Rick brought value and excellence to the military and now he is thrilled at the opportunities within the University of Texas in Austin.
Rick is married to his wife of 21 years, Diana. Together they have four children. Ana -20, Sofia - 18, Maximo -12 and Karina -9.