Hello and happy Friday! We are starting October off strong with another edition of the Employee Spotlight Series! This week we are featuring Jim Moye. Jim is a 340B Auditor and joined the SpendMend team just over a year ago. He describes SpendMend in three words as, “Engagement, Culture, and Leader.” His dedication to serving the healthcare market is shown through initiative and perseverance. His favorite part of the job is knowing that helping his clients ultimately impacts the lives of their patients. We thoroughly enjoyed learning more about Jim, and his life outside of work! Jim lives in Orlando, Florida and he is well-versed in the local theme parks. He can’t even count the number of times he’s visited them! From Disney World to The Fun Spot, he has great memories. Jim loves spending time at the parks walking around, and enjoying the park food and drinks! If only we could all live so close to the most magical place in the world! A fun fact about Jim is that he dabbles in cooking. He tries to make dishes that are not common in restaurants. Recently, he has learned to make Tamagoyaki – a Japanese rolled omelet! His family is lucky to taste test, and his most requested dish is a copy of P.F. Chang’s Dan Dan Noodles from his son! We are ready for a taste test in Grand Rapids! Another fun fact is that Jim has completed 7 marathons. His most favorite marathon he completed was the DC’s Marine Corps Marathon. He quotes, “What better way to enjoy DC than on foot during a race!” Make sure to read the full interview below to learn more about Jim’s marathon journey!

Jim does a wonderful job as a 340B Auditor! He inspires his co-workers and is a valued member of our team.  Nate Raney, 340B Auditor, said, “Jim is a favorite of every covered entity that he works with. He is genuine and always finds the bright side of any sticky situation. His knowledge base of both small hospitals, large hospitals, and federally qualified health centers allows him to find a solution for any compliance concern he identifies. All of these things make him not only a great auditor, but a friendly colleague, and a one-of-a-kind friend.” It was great getting to know a little more about Jim and we are so grateful for all the hard work he does! Thank you, Jim!

Interview with Jim:

What is your role at SpendMend?

340B Auditor

How long have you been with SpendMend?

Just over a year

How did you first learn about SpendMend?

Through the merger with Turnkey Pharmacy Solutions

What 3 words would you use to describe SpendMend?

Engagement, Culture, and Leader

Why do you look forward to coming to work?

Whether remote or on-site, I enjoy helping our customers navigate the complexities of the 340B Program. They are able to use savings to reach more patients and provide more comprehensive services. Ensuring our clients keep in compliance is top priority.

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

I worked as a cook and waiter long ago. It was truly a humbling experience.

What is one fun fact about you?

I have completed 7 marathons (26.2 miles of running). Though I have no plans to complete another one, runners tend to have short-term memories when a race signup opens.

What inspired you to start training and participating in marathons? What locations have you run a marathon in?

I started with small races around town, mainly a 5K distance. This escalated to other longer distances until deciding to take a plunge into the deep end and sign-up for Dopey at Disney. For those who have no clue what I am talking about, it is a series of races at Walt Disney World over their Marathon Weekend each January. This consists of a 5K on Thursday, 10K on Friday, 1/2 marathon on Saturday, and a full marathon on Sunday. I did this 5 years in a row and also ran the Marine Corps Marathon in DC within 2 of those 5 years.

Which marathon was your hardest to complete?

For sure the hardest marathon was my last marathon I completed due to a lack of training and preparation. It is only because I had friends running with me the entire time that I was even able to finish.

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

There is no way I am able to listen to a podcast and focus on work at the same time. Those who can are seriously impressive! I will listen to music from time to time. My taste in music is very eclectic. I invite anyone to ask what I am listening to next time we talk.

What type of music is on your current playlist?

There is no playlist I have, but rather it is a smattering of many different playlists. Depending on my mood it may be classical, punk, pop, techno, rock, indie, sea shanties, metal, hip hop, and all sorts of different sub-genres.

What is your favorite artist/band? Any song recommendations?

I am not usually one for recommending songs to people unless it is a conversation about music. However, I will give you some insight! I am listening to Alvvways – Ones Who Love You right now as I type this. There was a Beach Bunny concert I had tickets to go to before the pandemic reared its ugly head. We also lost so many great artists over the past 15 months but I am most sad about MF DOOM passing.

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

Living in Orlando, the theme park capital of the world, there is always something to do or somewhere to eat. I will dabble in anything sports-related if I have the time. Video games and golf are a fond pastime I still have a chance to do every once and a while. Most of my focus now is family time and enjoying the moment.

How many times have you been to Disney World, Universal Studios, or any other theme park?

I have visited the local theme parks so many times I could not even begin to imagine a number.

Which theme park is your favorite in Orlando? Any fun stories/memories in the theme parks? Favorite ride/activity?

There are places like Fun Spot, which are just cheap good fun. I am fortunate to remember a time before Universal was around. Disney was not as busy as it is now and I have very fond memories of being there in the afternoon during a weekday! There were not too many people and one could ride anything with minimal wait compared to today. It has become incredibly expensive, greatly outpacing inflation. But we are lucky to have had annual passes to some of the parks on and off! Today, I just enjoy leisurely walking around or even hotel hopping to grab food and drinks.

Do you interact with

Clients, Suppliers, and Potential Clients

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

All of my interactions with clients stand out. Because each 340B covered entity is just slightly different, it provides an environment to learn about them and give meaningful help.

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

I had a client email management that they loved working with me. Don’t sleep on giving someone a compliment, wherever you may be. Kindness is the way to ultimate success!

What is the best part of serving the healthcare market?

Knowing that helping our clients ultimately impacts the lives of their patients.

What is your favorite Recovery Room Activity?

Because I work remotely, I don’t get a chance to utilize the Recovery Room. However, I do have a chance to take a break from work and decompress in many other ways.

What has been your experience with SpendMend community service events?

SpendMend supports a running event each year to raise money that goes directly to breast cancer research. Remote employees even have the opportunity to participate virtually.

What is your favorite in-house event? (specific potluck, chili cook-off, bring your kid to work day, etc.)

I do miss out on potlucks or chili cook-offs, which is a shame because I do make some delicious food. But I can still participate in bringing your kid to work day when working from home!

What kinds of delicious food do you like to make?

As far as making food, it is often randomly discovered or carved in which I will attempt (sometimes successfully) to make. A note to my fellow amateur chefs, making some food is just not worth it and just leave it to a dining experience. I will often grill, smoke, or take the easy way out and throw something decent together from commonly rotated recipes or whatever is available at home. Most recently I learned to make a Japanese rolled omelet called Tamagoyaki. I also have tried and failed to make Omurice, at least to the standards I would like. Usually I try to make unfamiliar foods I cannot get at restaurants. My son’s most requested recipe is a copy of P.F. Chang’s Dan Dan Noodles.

What is your favorite food to eat?

My favorite food is certainly pizza. I often joke that even bad pizza is good.

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

Yes! Huge shout out to the people responsible for bringing me aboard. You know who you are and thank you!

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

Be true to yourself.

What has been your proudest accomplishment at SpendMend?

Helping clients successfully navigate HRSA audits has to be at the top of the list for any 340B Auditor.

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

Growing and learning from all of the other fantastic team members. For sure meeting people, sometimes for the first time, face-to-face. I am so grateful for technology allowing us to virtually connect but it is no replacement for seeing someone in person.

Hello everyone! Let’s celebrate this wonderful Friday with another edition of the Employee Spotlight Series! Today we are shining the light on Hannah Geelhoed. Hannah has been a part of the SpendMend team for five and a half years and plays more roles than what is titled on her business card. She is valued in both the Human Resources department and the Marketing department, and goes above and beyond! Hannah keeps herself fully booked by assisting HR in hiring and resume management, coordinating in-house events with LeAnne Hoekstra, organizing all community service outings and events, and managing the branding for the company. Hannah’s favorite part of coordinating the service events is being able to work together with people from all across the organization to fundraise. The Bee Brave 5K event is one that is close to her heart and looks forward to supporting every year! Hannah’s favorite memory was when SpendMend attended its second year, they had the largest turnout of over 40 employees and they were all represented with pink shirts! While it was great to hear Hannah’s passion and dedication for her work, it was great to learn more about her life outside of SpendMend! A fun fact about Hannah is that she enjoys camping. She has covered most of the west side of Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. One of her favorite adventures was to Pictured Rocks where she explored the shoreline and caves of Lake Superior! If you’re ever in the area, ask Hannah about her hiking recommendations. Another fun fact about Hannah is that she loves attending concerts and music festivals. She has seen her favorite band, Avett Brothers, over 20 times! She has a memorable moment at Red Rocks in Colorado where she snuck to the second row to get the full concert experience. If you need to add some new songs to your playlist, be sure to check out the rest of the interview to learn Hannah’s favorites!

Hannah does a fantastic job in every role she takes on at SpendMend. You always know that something is from SpendMend because it is all done by Hannah. Every item that is created by SpendMend has been touched by her; from the sales sheets to the fabric design on the lunchroom chairs! Sara Patin, Controller, said “Hannah has the unique role of sharing her talents between two departments, HR and Marketing, and she brings an incredible amount of enthusiasm and talent to each team!  She has a natural welcoming demeanor which puts our new associates at ease when they first join SpendMend, as I’m sure many can attest to.  Her passion for community involvement is contagious and brings the company together for several great causes throughout the year.  If you haven’t asked her about our current fundraiser for Bee Brave, please do!” Hannah is truly what makes SpendMend special and we are so lucky to have her a part of our team. We really appreciate it and couldn’t do it without you! Thank you, Hannah!

Interview with Hannah:

What is your role at SpendMend?

I split my time between two departments. I work in HR managing the recruiting and onboarding process and then I also work in the Marketing department as their graphic designer. I also help out with in-office activities and plan our community involvement projects on the side.

How long have you been with SpendMend?

Just over 5 and half years.

What 3 words would you use to describe SpendMend?

Collaborative, Driven, and Innovative

Why do you look forward to coming to work?

The people. SpendMend has created a team of good, hard-working people. I thoroughly enjoy logging onto team meetings to catch up with my coworkers and collaborate. Plus, I enjoy being able to serve the healthcare market without having to go to 6+ years of schooling. 😊

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

I worked in the collections department of the Grand Rapids Public Museum and had to lead tours of storage facilities, photograph the artifacts to digitally catalog the collections, and physically move and handle all the different artifacts. Only about 5% of artifacts are actually on display, so you can only imagine all the cool stuff tucked away. I once opened a drawer and to my surprise – found a mummy!

What is one fun fact about you?

I’ve seen one of my favorite bands over 20 times in the past 7 years. Check out an Avett Brothers live show if you ever get the chance.

What was the most memorable location/moment seeing the Avett Brothers?

The most memorable moment is probably the second night at Red Rocks in Colorado (they perform 3 nights there every year). My friend and I managed to sneak up to the second row and just had the greatest time and best view. I highly recommend going to a show there sometime.

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

Lots of different stuff. I constantly have Spotify open and an airpod in. For music: Mainly Indie-pop (The Band Camino, Walk the Moon, Hippo Campus, Valley, The New Coast, LANY, The Wldlfe, etc..), Folk/Americana (The Avett Brothers, Brandi Carlile, Caamp, Lord Huron, Drew Holcomb, Penny and Sparrow, Nathaniel Rateliff, etc…), Soul (St. Paul and the Broken Bones, Leon Bridges, The Marcus King Band, Lake Street Dive, etc..). For Podcasts: Armchair Expert, Circling Back, Switched on Pop, And the Writer is…, I’m gladly a part of Bachelor Nation – so a few of the podcasts that recap or have comments regarding the show.

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

I love to go to concerts/music festivals, camping, gardening, beer/wine tasting, I play beach volleyball with friends at Shots on the River.

What is your favorite concert/music festival to go to? Any fun stories to share?

My favorite festival is Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival in Manchester, TN. My sister and I go every year with a big group of friends. It was canceled this year while we were on the road on our way there due to Hurricane Ida Flooding… bummer, but we’ll be back in June 2022! Most of my memories from festivals happen between the shows while interacting with other festival-goers.

Where do you like camping? Any favorite locations? What kind of activities do you like to do when camping?

I’ve covered most of the west side of Northern Michigan and the popular sites or the UP (Upper Peninsula). I think my favorite was when I went to Pictured Rocks in August 2017. We planned to spend the day hiking specific trails, but the water was warm in Lake Superior, which is rare, so my friend and I changed into our suits behind a tree and decided to swim for a couple of hours along the shoreline and through the caves instead. I’ve also really enjoyed hiking through the Porcupine Mountains and around the Lake of the Clouds. If you’ve never gotten a chance to travel to northern Michigan, please do yourself a favor and book a summer or fall trip.

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

Unfortunately, I am not client-facing, but my work is. David Hewitt (Sales Team) once relayed that a client thought our presentation was the cleanest and best-branded presentation he has seen in a while, which was great to hear!

What is the best part of serving the healthcare market?

Helping the hospitals save money so they can spend it on treating patients and improving their care.

What is your favorite Recovery Room Activity?

Probably Ping-Pong. Nick VanZegeren and I play almost daily. I am currently in training to be able to defeat Brett Stuebinger next time he is in town.

What has been your experience with SpendMend community service events?

I am the person that coordinates all of our community outreach, so it takes a lot of work, but I wouldn’t trade it. I love each and every one of the organizations we support: Bee Brave, American Red Cross, Kids Food Basket – GR, and Toys For Tots. I am constantly floored by the team’s generosity surrounding each event. The Bee Brave 5K is coming up in a few weeks. Make sure to visit our site to donate or register: https://runsignup.com/spendmend

Can you share a fond memory of one of SpendMend’s community service events? Do you have an event that is closest to your heart?

The second year we attended the Bee Brave 5K we all wore pink shirts and had our largest turnout of over 40 employees. It was really special to be able to go upfront and tell everyone at the race what SpendMend does and why we participate. I loved being able to see so many members of our team there in support of this great cause.

Favorite part about coordinating all SpendMend’s service events?

My favorite part is getting to communicate and work with people from all across our organization to help fundraise and donate goods for each specific cause. It’s fun to see our company come together across multiple departments to give their time and hard-earned resources to a deserving cause.

What is your favorite in-house event? (specific potluck, chili cook-off, bring your kid to work day, etc.)

Hmm, that’s tricky. I love all of them. We have a lot of really good cooks at SpendMend, but I think I would have to choose the Chili Cook-off (I’m coming for you Becky) even though I do love getting to spend the day with all your kiddos at Bring Your Kid to Work Day. The Thanksgiving Lunch is pretty spectacular too!

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

Sara Patin – for always being in my corner, teaching me, and pushing me to grow my abilities.

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

Be prepared and willing to work hard, ask questions, absorb information, and remain driven. You will find that you can go far at SpendMend with these attributes.

What has been your proudest accomplishment at SpendMend?

Designing the new office aesthetic (workstations and lunchroom) and having everyone like it (that I know of…).

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

Creating an atmosphere that employees enjoy coming to and also creating visually appealing materials that best market SpendMend.

Happy Friday! We hope you are ready to celebrate Labor Day weekend! To start off the long holiday weekend, we wanted to tell you a little bit about Andi Prins! Andi is an Audit Supervisor and has been with the SpendMend team for almost 24 years. She describes SpendMend in three words as, “Family, Variety, Challenge.” Her passion to serve the healthcare industry is shown through dedication and hard work! She enjoys the challenges she faces at work everyday, and always strives to learn new things. Her favorite company in-house event is the potluck! She loves participating and spending quality time with her team. Andi loves to bring her cheesy potatoes, and shouts out LeAnne’s eclair dessert. We cannot wait to try those dishes at the next potluck soon! Outside of work, Andi’s favorite activity is to spend her time outside! She especially enjoys the fall season most of all. With summer coming to a close – the autumn weather is just around the corner! We know Andi is looking forward to it. Another fun fact is that she has two small dogs named Harley and Davidson. Hmm, sounds familiar? Funny enough, she always wanted to own a Harley because she liked the sound! Instead of becoming a bike owner, she substituted with some fury family members instead. Read the full interview below to learn about Andi’s “Night Time Ritual” with Harley and Davidson!

Andi is an exceptional Audit Supervisor, and we had several of her co-workers express how they value her on the team.  Travis Wheeler, Audit Manager, said “Andi is very motivated, she always strives to exceed expectations and isn’t afraid to roll up her sleeves when faced with challenges”.  It was great getting to know a little more about Andi and we really appreciate all the hard work she does! Thank you, Andi!

Interview with Andi:

What is your role at SpendMend?

Audit Supervisor

How long have you been with SpendMend?

23

How did you first learn about SpendMend?

Dan Geelhoed, work with him prior at MC Sports

What 3 words would you use to describe SpendMend?

Family, Variety, Challenge

Why do you look forward to coming to work?

Job challenges me everyday, always learning new things

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

Working at a donut / cake shop that had regular customers that came in every morning for coffee and donuts.

What is one fun fact about you?

Always wanted to own a Harley.  Instead I have two small dogs named Harley and Davidson. I always liked the sound of a Harley, where we used to live, large groups of bikes would travel down the road almost every weekend. Funny dog stories…every night when I finally get to sit down and relax they both sit in front of me and stare until I open the treat bucket.  We let them have 1 minute to eat however many treats they can and then it gets closed up and put away until the next stare down.

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

I listen to all types of music, need variety during the day.

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

Love just spending time outside, love Fall most of all.

Do you interact with

Clients and suppliers

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

I don’t have anything specific but I make it my goal everyday to assist clients and their suppliers everyday.

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

I get compliments on how I take the time to walk through processes and assist in anyway I can.

What is the best part of serving the healthcare market?

Helping get money back to their bottom line.

What has been your experience with SpendMend community service events?

I have participated in the 5K walk/run events and it was great to spend time with the team outside of the office.

What is your favorite in house event? (specific potluck, chili cook-off, bring your kid to work day, etc.)

I love participating in the potlucks at work.  This allows us to take time to get to know each other. I like to bring cheesy potatoes, my favorite is when LeAnne brings the eclair dessert.

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

I would say that Kerry Kelemen and I made a great team which lead to a very successful 2020 year.

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

You’re not just joining the company but you are joining the team.

What has been your proudest accomplishment at SpendMend?

Starting up the claim administration department.  Also, being more successful at the Audit Supervisor position then I anticipated.