Olga A. Espinosa-Anderson, MPA, CPPB, has amassed more than three and a half decades of expertise in solid waste management. She currently excels as the deputy director of the Department of Solid Waste Management in Miami-Dade County, Florida, demonstrating exceptional leadership and decision-making skills in a traditionally male-dominated industry. In this role, she strategizes, problem-solves, and negotiates contracts, making significant contributions to the department’s success. Notably, she is the first Afro-Cuban to lead the department.
Ms. Espinosa-Anderson’s career within Miami-Dade County is marked by steady progression. She began as an account clerk at the Department of Solid Waste Management while attending school at night. After earning her degree, she spent 15 years gaining experience across various departments before returning to solid waste management as procurement division director. In 2019, she was promoted to assistant director of disposal operations, followed by her appointment as deputy director of administration in 2023. Her tenure as interim director from 2023 to 2024 further solidified her leadership capabilities.
Laying a strong educational foundation, Ms. Espinosa-Anderson earned an associate degree in business administration and management with honors from Miami Dade College in 1987, a bachelor’s degree in communications from the same institution in 1991, and a Master of Public Administration from Florida International University in 1994. She also holds certifications in landfill operations, material recovery facility management, and transfer station operations, along with the certified professional public buyer designation. She remains actively engaged in her field as a member of the Solid Waste Association of North America and the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing.
Reflecting on her path, Ms. Espinosa-Anderson discovered her passion for public service after applying for a county job at a friend’s suggestion. She began her career as an account clerk while pursuing her education at night, later advancing through multiple departments. When her previous office closed, she returned to solid waste management as procurement division director, a turning point that reinforced her dedication to serving the community. She takes pride in making a meaningful impact in people’s lives every day, finding fulfillment in her role as a public servant.
Ms. Espinosa-Anderson attributes her success to the values and work ethic instilled in her by her parents, recognizing their sacrifices in helping her succeed. She credits her achievements to hard work, dedication to public service, networking, continuous improvement, and her faith in God. A guiding principle in her career has been advice from her mother upon her first promotion: “It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.” She has carried this wisdom throughout her career, always striving to lead with compassion.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Ms. Espinosa-Anderson is deeply involved in civic activities and community service. She served as director of outreach and education for Team Metro from 1995 to 2008 and volunteers with Making Strides Against Breast Cancer. She is also a donor to United Way Worldwide and an active member of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church of Miami Gardens and Leadership Miami. Her contributions have been recognized with honors such as the Susan B. Anthony Award from the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
In her personal life, Ms. Espinosa-Anderson enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, singing in the church choir, reading, and writing poetry. Looking ahead, she remains committed to giving back to her community and envisions a future role as an adjunct professor while continuing to serve her constituents with dedication and integrity.