Hi everyone and happy Friday! To start the weekend, we wanted to bring you another edition of the Employee Spotlight Series! This week we are highlighting Heather McFadden. Heather is an Auditor and joined the team about four years ago. When asked why she looks forward to coming to work, she said, “As an auditor, I enjoy the mystery and plot twists that can come from a large overpayment. We never know when they’ll show up!” It was great learning more about Heather’s background and what she does outside of SpendMend. A fun fact about Heather is that she attended Oakland Community College to become an ASL interpreter because she was interested in signing and educating herself about the Deaf community and culture. After volunteering as a church Youth Group Leader She continued her education at GRCC and GVSU for Psychology and Social Work. Another fun fact about Heather is that she was part of an all-women’s show choir! The choir sang in four-part harmonies and would perform all different types of songs and dances. They performed at local events, special group activities, competitions, and festivals! The show choir traveled to performances all over the country. Heather’s favorite cities she visited were Chicago and New York City! Be sure to check out the full interview below to learn more about Heather’s show choir experience! Outside of work, Heather enjoys being active and loves many types of fitness activities! Her favorites are exercise classes and kickboxing. She participates multiple times a week in POUNDfit classes! 

Heather is a committed and hardworking member of the SpendMend team. Eric Florance, Audit Manager, said, “Heather is a top producer on our team, and she accomplishes this by building solid relationships with our client’s vendors. She maintains the highest level of professionalism, keeps a positive attitude, and over time she develops great relationships with our clients’ vendors.” We are so grateful to have people like Heather! We appreciate all that you do, Heather! 

Interview with Heather:

What is your role at SpendMend?

Auditor

How long have you been with SpendMend?

This week marks my fourth anniversary 

How did you first learn about SpendMend?

I met and married my husband, Dennis, during my five years with Business Strategy, Inc. Although I loved my job in the WFC Department, I left BSI to stay home and raise our kids.

What 3 words would you use to describe SpendMend?

Progressive, innovative, and autonomous

Why do you look forward to coming to work?

As an auditor, I enjoy the mystery and plot twists that can come from a large overpayment. We never know when they’ll show up!

Before working at SpendMend, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?

Sometimes a mom just needs to get out of the house without kids, so I started a side hustle doing in-home relaxation sessions and spa treatments.

What is one fun fact about you?

Being part of a show choir comprised of 32 young women, we were able to do a lot of traveling, which created a lot of fun and so many memories!

What types of songs do you perform? What was your favorite place you visited when traveling? 

As a Sophomore, I auditioned for and was placed in my High School’s female-only show choir, singing four-part harmony, and dancing multiple styles at local events, special group activities, competitions, and festivals.  There was one large tour each year for the 32 of us, Chicago and New York City, which included professional musicals, like Oliver, Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat with Donnie Osmond, Les Miserables, Miss Saigon on Broadway, and a few others. The highlights would include being invited to sing at Radio City Music Hall and all the fun of big cities! 

What type of music or podcasts do you listen to during the workday?

The genre I listen to depends on my mood, so my playlists cover classical to rap, pop to grunge.

Do you have any hobbies or participate in any activities outside of work?

I participate multiple times each week in POUNDfit classes. I’d probably squeeze in kickboxing if it were more available in my area. Those are my first loves of any type of fitness, but I have considered running short distances again.  I also enjoy sporting events, gardening, canning, and all things planning/organizing!

Do you interact with

Suppliers

Can you describe an interaction when you helped a client or a supplier that stands out in your mind?

Sometimes it’s more than just calling on credits that get the job done well. There have been a couple of people that I have worked closely with, whom I was able to provide information, which led to a lot of help in return!  Picking up the phone to make those connections can be imperative!

What was the best compliment you’ve ever been paid by a client or supplier?

I have been thanked for quick replies and for helping to clean up old account items, though I especially like talking to cranky people and having them smile or laugh a little by the end of the call.

What has been your experience with SpendMend community service events?

It’s been a lot of fun participating in the Bee Brave 5k, and providing gifts for Toys for Tots!

Do you want to shout out a co-worker who has helped or inspired you at SpendMend?

The Grey POD has been great! Even as staff changes over time, everyone is kind, approachable, and helpful!  We have fun but also work together as a team to make things happen.

What advice do you have for prospective candidates who want to join the SpendMend team?

There are a number of facets to SpendMend. What we do, and especially how we do it all can be a lot to take in…but it’s worth taking a shot!  If you don’t like what you’re doing, there’s quite possibly another area within the company to better suit you.

What has been your proudest accomplishment at SpendMend?

As any auditor can attest, turning claims isn’t always an easy feat. There have been large items that have made it across the line that we can just “feel good” about, and be paid for.  Those are my jam – difficult but GOOD CLAIMS that bring in revenue!

What is something you’re looking forward to for your future at SpendMend?

I always look forward to learning more, helping more, and growing more!

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