Fortino Rivera, the Chief Executive Officer of Staffing Solutions, has a storied career that spans over three decades in sales and marketing management, and nearly two decades at the helm of his own company. Born and raised in Santa Ana, California, Fortino comes from a large family of nine siblings. His upbringing in a close-knit family instilled in him the values of hard work, dedication, and perseverance.
Fortino’s early years were marked by personal challenges that shaped his character and ambition. When his mother passed away when he was just 13 years old, Fortino resolved to make her proud by excelling in both academics and sports. He attended Santa Ana High School, where he maintained good grades and participated in football, wrestling, baseball, and track and field. This dedication to sports helped him develop a competitive nature and a drive for excellence that have defined his professional and personal life.
After high school, Fortino attended Santa Ana College, further honing his skills and knowledge. His career began in sales and marketing management, where he quickly rose through the ranks to become a National Sales Manager for a California-based manufacturer and later the Latin America Sales Manager for a multinational corporation. His extensive experience in these roles provided him with a deep understanding of the business world and the importance of strategic leadership.
In 2003, Fortino founded Staffing Solutions, a full-service employment agency that services Orange, Los Angeles, and Riverside counties. As the CEO, he has successfully led the company for over 20 years, building it into a respected name in the staffing industry. Recently, he has also taken on the role of Chairman of the California Staffing Professionals Political Action Committee for the State Board. In this capacity, Fortino works to improve the business climate in California, advocating for common-sense solutions that benefit the staffing industry and the broader business community.
Fortino’s success as a Hispanic small business owner has garnered significant media attention. He has appeared on television networks such as Univision and Fox 11 News, featured in national commercials in both English and Spanish, and been interviewed on national radio and cable programs. His insights and experiences have also been highlighted in podcasts and publications like Authority Magazine.
Fortino’s commitment to community service is unwavering. For nearly 40 years, he has served on numerous nonprofit boards and commissions. His current and past affiliations include the YMCA of Orange County, the City of Santa Ana Commission, Goodwill Industries of Orange County/Landmark Services, the California Staffing Professionals State Board, New Majority of Orange County, the Santa Ana College Foundation Board, the Orange County Youth Sports Foundation Board, the Hispanic 100 Board, The Toll Roads of Orange County Hispanic Advisory Board, and the South Coast Global Medical Center Board.
A deeply religious man, Fortino believes his faith in God is the cornerstone of his dedication to community service. He strives to set a positive example for his children and grandchildren, ensuring they have the same opportunities he has had. This faith-driven motivation is a key factor in his continued involvement in organizations that make a difference.
Fortino has been married to his high school sweetheart, Bertha Rivera, for 43 years. Together, they have three children and six grandchildren, with whom he enjoys spending time. Fortino’s personal philosophy is encapsulated in his favorite quote from the movie Shawshank Redemption: “Get busy living or get busy dying.” He continues to live life to the fullest, enjoying hobbies such as riding motorcycles, a passion he has had since he was eight years old.
Fortino joined the Orange County Youth Sports Foundation (OCYSF) Board in 2019. He was motivated by his desire to ensure that sports programs, which had a significant impact on his own life, remain available to future generations. He serves on the Banquet Committee and contributes to raising funds through events to support organizations in need and provide scholarships to deserving athletes.
