How long have you worked at Westec Plastics?
I joined Westec in 2002 as the Controller, and recently I was promoted to Vice President of Finance. I am officially just over 18 years of service and counting, but it seems like only a few years; how time flies! When I first joined Westec, it was, at the time, a thriving little injection molding company with big visions, small capital and always an eye to future growth and innovation. Boy, were they right!
What does your typical day look like?
A typical day for any Controller/VP job in a corporation is far-reaching across all aspects of accounting, cash management and financial monitoring. Managing cash flow is one of the most strenuous parts of the job, not only in small businesses but especially in the very competitive world of injection molding. Every penny counts and must be accounted for. Just give me a spreadsheet and call me happy.
How has your career grown since starting at Westec?
My career growth and the growth plan of the company go hand in hand. When a company such as Westec sets into action a true growth and innovation technology plan, the controller, in addition to the rest of the team, must work together to bring the vision to an affordable reality. Whether or not it is micromanaging daily operation costs, leases, capital equipment, and staffing, you must find a happy medium to satisfy all parties and see that the financial impact does not harm the company of its growth. I have seen this through both the good and bad with many changes in the way business, in general, is performed today as opposed to 18 years ago. I had no choice but to grow with the times; as they say ‘Get on Board’.
What is your favorite part about Westec?
There are so many exciting things that have happened to Westec over the years, but consistently my most favorite part about working here is the family feel and the personal pride felt by every member of the team. This has always been the vibe since the day I first interviewed and continues to be the same today. When you’re part of the team, you’re part of the family. The extreme personal excitement and sense of pride shared by each one of us when a new piece of equipment and technology arrives on the dock, gets installed, and runs for the very first time. All of us know how much time, effort, blood, sweat, cost, teamwork and risk it took to get it here (I’m not crying, you’re crying!). You don’t get that just anywhere. It takes a strong foundation and strong morals to maintain that for as long as Westec has maintained it and been in business.
Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies/passions?
I spend the majority of my time off traveling and exploring new places; I love going to places that I’ve never seen and learning about new cultures. I love spending time and laughing with my friends until my sides hurt. Unfortunately, we haven’t been able to do much of that lately, but hopefully, we’ll be back to it soon. I’m a born and bred Bay Area gal so anytime I can take in a 49er or Giants game, I am in! And wine… does that count?
How do you feel about putting pineapple on pizza?
I’m sorry, it’s just never okay. Anchovies, however, are okay.
If animals could talk, which would be the rudest?
Cats, of course, but that’s a given because they’re tiny killing machines, but too small to do anything with their powers. And they are at the same time, adorable little fluffballs.
Toilet paper, over or under?
Definitely Over! It says I’m ready for whatever you’ve got planned for me.
What is something that everyone looks stupid doing?
Wearing a shower cap. I’m terrified of public speaking and stand by the old adage, just picture everybody in their underwear, knee socks & a shower cap.
To meet more of the Westec Plastics team, visit the “our team” page. Ready to start a partnership with us? Contact us today!
