Fernando Ortiz

Fernando Ortiz Email and Phone Number

Senior Director, Counsel @ Bakkt
Chicago, IL, US
Fernando Ortiz's Location
Chicago, Illinois, United States, United States
About Fernando Ortiz

As Senior Counsel at Zero Hash, I lead our legal, regulatory, and compliance functions, empowering platforms to integrate digital assets seamlessly into their customer experiences. With over six years of experience in fintech and cryptocurrency, I bring a strategic blend of legal acumen and industry insight to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities of this dynamic sector.My expertise spans key regulatory relationships, including compliance with NYDFS’s “BitLicense” regime, state money transmission laws, and international licensing frameworks. I specialize in applying U.S. securities laws to digital assets and related services, ensuring compliance while supporting innovation. Beyond regulatory expertise, I advise the executive team and cross-functional stakeholders on contracts, governance, risk management, and strategic initiatives that drive business growth.Certified as a Blockchain & Law Professional, I am deeply committed to using technology and legal strategy to create meaningful impact for our clients and partners. Aligned with Zero Hash’s mission, I am dedicated to defining the digital-assets-as-a-service landscape and advancing the fintech frontier.

Fernando Ortiz's Current Company Details
Bakkt

Bakkt

View
Senior Director, Counsel
Chicago, IL, US
Website:
bakkt.com
Employees:
440
Fernando Ortiz Work Experience Details
  • Bakkt
    Senior Director, Counsel
    Bakkt
    Chicago, Il, Us
  • Zero Hash
    Senior Counsel
    Zero Hash Apr 2022 - Present
    Chicago, Illinois, United States
    Senior Counsel – Zero HashLegal and Compliance Leadership in Digital Assets, Fintech Strategy, and Cross-Border RegulationWith nearly 7 years at Zero Hash, I’ve advanced from Regulatory Counsel to Senior Counsel, driving regulatory compliance, strategic licensing, and legal advisory. I’ve led efforts to obtain 45+ money transmitter licenses, managing complex applications and direct communications with state regulators. A key achievement includes securing Zero Hash’s BitLicense from NYDFS, demonstrating my capability with challenging regulatory standards.To support compliance, I implemented a streamlined process for meeting monthly, quarterly, and annual reporting requirements, ensuring Zero Hash’s adherence across states. I also spearheaded international licensing in the EU, UK, Australia, Brazil, and beyond, aligning Zero Hash’s global business strategy with local regulations.I oversee Zero Hash’s token review process, applying the Howey Test and SEC guidance to assess regulatory status and manage associated risks. In partner, client, and bank onboarding, I ensure KYC/AML, IT, and privacy compliance while collaborating cross-functionally with legal, compliance, sales, tech, and finance teams. As a legal liaison to the executive team and board, I support critical projects, integrating compliance insights with business objectives.I’ve developed policies and processes for both state and international compliance, enabling agile responses to regulatory updates. My broader experience includes corporate law, privacy law, and business advisory, equipping me to provide strategic, cross-departmental counsel in a fast-paced environment.Through proactive compliance, strategic insight, and collaborative leadership, I support Zero Hash’s goals in a highly regulated and rapidly evolving sector.
  • Zero Hash
    Regulatory Counsel & Compliance Officer
    Zero Hash Jan 2020 - Apr 2022
  • Zero Hash
    Market Surveillance Analyst & Operations Support
    Zero Hash May 2018 - Jan 2020
  • Zero Hash
    Legal, Regulatory, And Compliance
    Zero Hash Dec 2017 - May 2018
  • Upright Law
    Legal And Compliance
    Upright Law Feb 2017 - May 2018
    Chicago
    UpRight is the first national online consumer law firm in the U.S. and it is one of the fastest growing firms in the country. UpRight is changing the way legal services are delivered by using technology to connect consumers with the firm’s lawyers. UpRight provides consumers with affordable, convenient access to high-quality legal representation by removing the most common obstacles that prevent Americans from accessing the justice system – such as inconvenient business hours, geographic distance between lawyers and consumers, intimidation of the justice system and poor payment plans.
  • Uic John Marshall Law School
    Legal Intern Pro Bono Program & Clinic
    Uic John Marshall Law School Aug 2017 - Dec 2017
    The Pro Bono Program & Clinic provides direct legal representation in foreclosure cases for clients who are residents of Cook County. In addition, clients may receive legal advice for a diverse range of foreclosure-related issues. Law students and designated supervising attorney(s) provide the collaborative with quality legal representation and offer advice to homeowners who are facing foreclosure and in need of legal assistance.
  • Uic John Marshall Law School
    Graduate Assistant Office Of Diversity & Inclusion
    Uic John Marshall Law School Jan 2016 - Aug 2017
    Chicago
    Worked with the Dean, faculty, staff, students, and alumni to 1) provide a welcoming atmosphere in a diverse and inclusive environment; 2) promote increased diversity and inclusiveness; and 3) publicize and celebrate the benefits of a diverse and inclusive community.
  • Spector & Lenz, P.C.
    Law Intern
    Spector & Lenz, P.C. Jan 2017 - Jun 2017
    Chicago
    Spector & Lenz, P.C. represents thousands of clients in Social Security, SSI, Disability Adjudication and Judicial Review, Retirement Pension and Disability Pension Claims.
  • Rosenfeld, Hafron, Shapiro & Farmer
    Law Intern
    Rosenfeld, Hafron, Shapiro & Farmer Jun 2016 - Sep 2016
    Chicago
    Rosenfeld Hafron Shapiro & Farmer, provides assistance to clients throughout Illinois who need help with personal injury claims and lawsuits. The firm represent plaintiffs in cases involving accidents, medical malpractice and personal injury, and have the knowledge and experience necessary to effectively handle these types of legal situations.
  • Chicago Public Schools
    Law Department Intern
    Chicago Public Schools Jun 2012 - Aug 2013
    Chicago

Fernando Ortiz Education Details

Frequently Asked Questions about Fernando Ortiz

What company does Fernando Ortiz work for?

Fernando Ortiz works for Bakkt

What is Fernando Ortiz's role at the current company?

Fernando Ortiz's current role is Senior Director, Counsel.

What schools did Fernando Ortiz attend?

Fernando Ortiz attended University Of Illinois Chicago School Of Law, Northeastern Illinois University.

Who are Fernando Ortiz's colleagues?

Fernando Ortiz's colleagues are Debbie Wiggins, Taneisha Allen, Andrea Anderson, Manuel Sanchez, Kiara Toussaint, Kaylah Roach, Kilee Kowalczyk.

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