April 16, 2026

The Role of Empathy in Leadership with Alberto J. Ortiz

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The Role of Empathy in Leadership with Alberto J. Ortiz

Empathy is often talked about in leadership, but not always fully understood.

In fast-paced, results-driven environments, it can sometimes feel like empathy and performance are in tension. But in reality, the strongest leaders know that empathy is what drives connection, trust, and long-term success.

In this episode of The Bliss Business Podcast, we will welcome Alberto J. Ortiz, CEO and President of ATAX, a leader with nearly two decades of experience in the tax industry and a deep commitment to serving local communities.

Alberto began his career at H&R Block, where he spent 10 years growing into leadership roles including District General Manager, Regional Director, and Vice President of Latin Operations, supporting more than 2,700 offices. Today, he leads ATAX with a clear mission: Having Fun, Improving Lives, while working toward a bold vision of becoming the largest tax franchise in the United States by 2032.

In The Role of Empathy in Leadership, we explore:

• What empathy looks like in high-performance environments

• How leaders balance results with people-first leadership

• The role of empathy in building trust across large teams

• Lessons from leading across diverse communities

• Why empathy is a key driver of sustainable growth

🎙️ Hosted by Stephen Sakach and Tullio Siragusa 🎧 Produced by Martha Huerta

Empathy is not a soft skill. It is a leadership advantage.

Alberto J. Ortiz Profile Photo

CEO

Alberto J. Ortiz has worked in the tax industry for 18 years, gaining practical knowledge at H&R Block for 10 years. His experience ranged from District General Manager, Regional Director and Vice President of Latin Operations supporting more than 2,700 offices. Alberto is now the CEO and President of ATAX, a tax and business services franchise serving our local communities.

ATAX’s mission statement: Having Fun, Improving Lives!
And it's vision is to be the largest Tax Franchise in the United States by 2032!