Celebrating Women’s History Month: Karen Tortella Member Spotlight

For Women’s History Month, we are proud to spotlight Karen Tortella, a member whose career reflects the strength of womenhood in international business.

As a leader within the growing International Tax Services practice at Citrin Cooperman, she brings more than two decades of experience across public accounting and private industry. She began her career in public accounting, working with various local companies for ten years before stepping into a Controller role at a privately held company. She then made the intentional decision to step away from her career to raise her family.

When she was ready to return to the workforce eleven years ago, an opportunity to join a local firm with a niche in international tax arose. That firm was then acquired by Citrin Cooperman, where the International Tax Services practice has expanded since.

When reflecting on her path into what has been a male-dominated field, she shares that she never focused on the barriers. From the beginning, her drive let her work speak for itself.

Her advice to her college self and to young women entering the profession today is inspiring.

“Don’t ever discount your worth and the skills you bring to the table no matter what journey or path you choose. It is important to educate and advocate for yourself.”

She emphasizes a truth that continues to need to be reinforced,

“women are just as knowledgeable and capable as their male counterparts.”

Even with this mindset Karen acknowledges how gender-based assumptions still are present even subtly. A challenge she encounters is a perception about women being less dependable because of the physical aspects of having a family and childcare responsibilities.

“Even when reduced-hour or flexible schedules are formally available, there is often an unspoken stigma attached to taking them,” she explains. “Those assumptions can influence decisions about assignments, leadership opportunities, travel roles, and visibility on teams—even without anyone intending harm.”

Her approach to navigating these challenges has been rooted in self-advocacy.

“Learning to advocate for yourself and lay out your personal goals is helpful in navigating these challenges.”

This Women’s History Month, we celebrate Karen’s story, that is a reminder that progress is built through persistence, professionalism, and drive.