Welcome to the Employee Spotlight Series! This week, we were able to learn more about Leah Kuester. Leah is a Vendor Specialist and has been a part of the SpendMend team for about four and a half years. When asked what her proudest accomplishment at SpendMend is, she said, “I’m happy that I’m in a position where I can expand upon my research and problem-solving skills.” It was great interviewing Leah and learning about her life outside of SpendMend! A fun fact about Leah is that she is from Grand Rapids, MI. She spent some time at Grand Rapids Community College, and her favorite subject was Science. Another fun fact about Leah is that she likes true crime podcasts! Her favorite podcast is called “Crime Junkie,” and she’s been listening for about four years. When asked why she likes the podcast, she states, “I’m really interested in forensics, and they dive into the details of the cases they cover. I really appreciate the format of their podcasts and the other work they do.” Thanks for the recommendation, Leah! We will have to check it out. During her free time, Leah likes to be creative and work with crafts! She picked up crocheting as a hobby because she enjoys working with her hands and finds the projects rewarding. Her favorite item she has worked on is a hat for the Renfair in Holly, MI! She likes that it was fun, difficult, and a detailed project. Be sure to check out the interview below to learn more about Leah’s crafting!
Leah does a fantastic job as a Vendor Specialist. We asked Oriana Bosma, Vendor Management / Quality Control Specialist, about Leah, and she said, “Leah Kuester is a kind, patient person whose attention to detail and accuracy make her an asset to our team. I have worked with her since she first joined the WNC Statement Callers way back when it was a two-person team. We quickly became good friends, and I was excited to bring her in to work on the Master Vendor Management project recently. Leah is creative, smart, and has a fantastic sense of humor.” Thanks for all your hard work, Leah! Keep it up!
What is your role at SpendMend?
Vendor Specialist
How long have you been with SpendMend?
4 1/2 years
How did you first learn about SpendMend?
My mom has been with the company for a while, and I was referred by her.
What 3 words would you use to describe SpendMend?
Dependable, Collaborative, Good-Atmosphere
Where are you located/from?
I’m from Grand Rapids, MI
Where did you go for higher education?
I spent two semesters at GRCC.
What did you study and why?
My favorite topic is science.
Why do you look forward to coming to work?
I like learning new things.
Before working at SpendMend, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
I worked at an escape room, and it was a LOT of fun.
What is one fun fact about you?
I love to crochet.
When did you start learning how to crochet, and why?
I started learning to crochet about two years ago. I wanted a new hobby, and working with my hands is something that I’ve always found really rewarding. It feels like I’m making something out of virtually nothing.
What is your favorite type of item to crochet?
I made a hat for the Renfaire in Holly, MI, this year, and that was a fun, difficult, and detailed project.
What is your favorite project to work on?
I love working with yarn and paint, and usually, my main focus is making things I can put on display for myself. I love surrounding my space with extra cute stuff.
What type of music or podcasts do you listen to during the workday?
Punk rock and true crime podcasts.
What crime podcasts are your favorite to listen to and why?
My favorite true crime podcast is called “Crime Junkie,” and I’ve been listening to them for around four years. I think I’m really interested in forensics, and they dive into the details of the cases they cover. I really appreciate the format of their podcasts and the other work they do.
Do you have any hobbies or participate in any activities outside of work?
I craft; making things is so much fun.
What has been your experience with SpendMend community service events?
I haven’t participated much yet, but I’m striving to in the future. I love that SpendMend makes it a point to give back to the community in many ways.
Do you want to shout out a co-worker who has helped or inspired you at SpendMend?
Oriana Bosma has taught me a lot of what I know, and I enjoy working with her.
What advice do you have for prospective candidates who want to join the SpendMend team?
Communication is key.
What has been your proudest accomplishment at SpendMend?
I’m happy that I’m in a position where I can expand upon my research and problem-solving skills.
What is something you’re looking forward to for your future at SpendMend?
I’m always looking forward to learning.