Getting to Know Us - Alyssa, Production Manager
Alyssa Anderson is the manager of the production department here at Mountain Madness Soap and has been with us for three years. Over a short amount of time, Alyssa has made a very big impression with the amount of growth and determination she has exemplified. She is energetic, funny, and dedicated to the task of getting handmade quality products made well.
Mountain Madness is unique for many reasons, but one of our noteworthy traits is that we make most of the products we sell. Although we do carry resale items, most of the bath and body products available in our store are handmade in our production warehouse.
Alyssa’s job is to oversee the production department, which is no easy task. Far from simple, managing all aspects of production at MMS is a lot like juggling one hundred balls at the same time. Some of Alyssa’s duties include ordering raw materials, doing quality control assessments, tracking inventory and scheduling hours for the production staff. Those are only the tasks that are easy to name, Alyssa does many other duties that could easily go unnoticed, she works quickly and is constantly in motion. But her hard work is noticed, people who work closely with Alyssa know how dedicated and enthusiastic she is about her responsibilities. She is a well-respected team player at work, but most of all she is a dear friend who shows up every day to join us in the fun of making soap and bath products for our valued customers.
How long have you worked for MMS and what is your job title?
I started in March of 2018. Initially I was hired for customer service but after 6 month an opening in the production department became available and I took it. Production is where I found my groove. In September 2020 I was asked to become the production manager. I have many duties as the head of the department, but I do not see it as simply a nine to five job. Yes, it is my job to make sure employees show up and that products are made, but I feel my most important duty it to set a good example. I want to show our team that with hard work, determination, and patience you can accomplish anything.
How did you find your job at MMS?
I responded to an ad for an open position. Before I was ever hired, I would often pass the store on Sherman and notice their cute décor, it looked like a fun place to be. Little did I know that I would spend so much time here.
What do you love most about working at MMS?
My favorite part about working at MMS is the support I feel from the people I work with, we call it the Mountain Madness family. I also get to work side by side with my best friend which makes the workday fun.
Sometimes ‘it’s the little things’ – what is one little thing you love about MMS?
Laughter!!! The humor in this company is so refreshing. Not a day goes by without hearing giggles and laughter.
How do you collaborate when you are at work?
I have learned there is not just one right way of doing things, but many. Sometimes when collaborating its natural to want to take charge and have a plan ready. I find the best way to collaborate with others is to remember that everyone does not think the same, and everyone should be able to have an opinion. I have learned that patience, kindness, and respecting different viewpoints is the key to good teamwork.
What skills do you most often use at work?
The daily skills I most commonly use are time management, problem solving, and leadership. Working at MMS has also strengthened my communication skills and raised my patience level. The biggest lessons I have learned are about emotional health, I am learning to take better care of myself and my needs. Through the growth and support I have found here; I know I have what it takes to be the best version of myself.
What is your superpower?
Fixing things, in 2nd grade I had the nick name Mrs. Fix-it Lady.
What is your favorite part of the workday?
The moments I get to giggle with my team.
What do you do when you are not at work?
Adventures with my best friend.
Spoiling my dogs with kisses.
Breakfast with my little family.
Fussing over my house plants because they need love too.
What are your hobbies?
Shopping for new and funky house plants
Hiking – I like to hike Tubbs Hill with my friends.