Women To Watch 2025 honoree Tamika L. Smith

As the Chief Operating Officer (COO) at the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors (NACDD), Tamika Smith brings a wealth of experience and expertise in driving operational excellence, strategic management, and cross-functional leadership. Smith is a transformational, results-driven leader driving innovation and growth strategies that shape high-performing portfolios in the public and private sectors. With a proven track record of successful implementation and execution of business strategies, she is committed to optimizing the company's operational performance, streamlining processes, and driving innovation by leveraging data-driven insights and industry best practices.

Tamika's career journey is a testament to her adaptability and diverse skill set. It began with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from American Intercontinental University, where she honed her creative skills. She then made a significant transition into the nonprofit sector, bringing her unique perspective and design-focused approach. Before joining NACDD, she spent 20 years in commercial, hospitality, and residential design, including ten years as a partner and principal designer for a boutique design firm, where she developed a strong foundation in project management.

Since joining NACDD in 2011, Tamika has consistently demonstrated her ability to adapt and excel in different areas of the organization. She was quickly promoted to manage Member Services initiatives and creative direction for all the Association's marketing and media collateral. Throughout her career at NACDD, she has held various leadership roles, honing skills that have made her a solid leader in operations management, business analysis, and process improvement. Her keen eye for detail and strategic mindset have led to successfully executing large-scale initiatives, resulting in significant cost savings and improved operational capabilities.

Ms. Smith's academic achievements are a testament to her commitment to continuous learning and her desire to bring the best to her role at NACDD. She holds a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and a Master of Business Administration from Western Governors University. These degrees have equipped her with a robust understanding of leadership dynamics and business strategy, which she applies to her role at NACDD. Her leadership has driven organizational growth and has been vital in strengthening the organization's culture of collaboration and innovation.

In addition to her extensive operational experience, Tamika excels in building and leading high-performing teams. She consistently motivates her team to exceed expectations and achieve outstanding results by fostering a culture of accountability and continuous learning. She is highly successful in building trusted relationships with key decision-makers, solving complex problems, and delivering on organizational goals by leveraging her expertise and the strengths of others through promoting diverse and inclusive teams. Tamika's ability to effectively communicate and align cross-functional teams has driven organizational growth and success.

As a respected member of the professional community, Tamika serves on the PMI Atlanta Chapter Board and is a member of the Forbes Nonprofit Council, where she shares her insights on effective nonprofit management through published works such as expert panel discussions and articles. Her contributions have not gone unnoticed; she was named one of the 2024 Atlanta Business Chronicle's People on the Move and received the 2020 NACDD's CEO Award, recognizing her outstanding leadership and commitment to the organization's mission.

Tamika is also an active member of the National Black MBA Association and the COO Forum, where she engages with peers to promote diversity and growth in the business sector. Outside of her professional achievements, she is passionate about mentoring emerging leaders and participating in community service projects. In her free time, Tamika enjoys playing tennis, traveling the world, and cherishing moments with her family, reflecting her belief in a balanced and fulfilling life. Through her work and personal endeavors, Tamika continues to make a significant impact, empowering others and championing health initiatives nationwide.