Our Founder & CEO

Tamika L. Smith, MBA, MS, PMP, is the energetic Founder and CEO of Nexus Business Consultants, LLC, where she provides fractional CXO support to organizations eager to enhance their operational and strategic capabilities. In addition to her consulting work, Tamika is the creator of the NextUpNow Pitch Lab platform, a vibrant community that connects entrepreneurs with investors. This platform offers aspiring business owners the chance to pitch their ideas and secure funding to support the growth of their ventures.

 

Tamika's journey began with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design from American Intercontinental University, where she discovered her passion for creativity. For 20 years, she thrived in the commercial, hospitality, and residential design sectors, spending a decade as a partner and principal designer at a boutique design firm. This rich experience not only sharpened her design skills but also laid a strong foundation in project management and strategic planning.

 

In 2011, Tamika made a significant shift into the nonprofit sector, applying her design-focused approach to her new role. She quickly rose through the ranks, managing enterprise-level project management, national Member Services initiatives, and directing creative marketing strategies for over 7,000 industry professionals. This journey allowed her to refine her expertise in operations management and business analysis, successfully executing large-scale initiatives that resulted in substantial cost savings and improved operational effectiveness.

 

With a Master of Science in Management and Leadership and a Master of Business Administration from Western Governors University, Tamika exemplifies a dedication to lifelong learning. Her leadership style is centered around collaboration and innovation, fostering a culture that drives organizational growth and strategic alignment.

 

As a fractional CXO consultant, Tamika excels at building and leading high-performing teams. She inspires her teams to exceed expectations, promoting a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Her ability to cultivate trusted relationships with key decision-makers and navigate complex challenges is vital in delivering measurable results and achieving organizational objectives.

 

Tamika is also a founding member of The Quantum Coalition Network and remains active in the professional community, having served on the boards of the PMI Atlanta Chapter, the COO Forum, and the Forbes Nonprofit Council. Through expert discussions and published articles, she shares her insights on effective management and strategic leadership. Her contributions have earned her notable recognition, including being named one of the 2024 People on the Move by the Atlanta Business Chronicle and a Top 50 COO by Women We Admire in 2025.

 

Outside of her professional life, Tamika is passionate about mentoring emerging leaders and giving back to her community. Whether she's playing tennis, exploring new travel destinations, or cherishing quality time with her family, she believes in maintaining a balanced life while empowering others to reach their goals. Tamika's dedication to equipping organizations with strategic insights and operational expertise ensures they not only meet their challenges but also transform them into opportunities for growth and success. With her unique blend of creativity, strategic thinking, and a genuine passion for helping others, Tamika continues to make a meaningful impact in the lives of entrepreneurs and organizations alike.