Alana

MANAGER GENERAL ACCOUNTING

What's on your iPod?

Eric Roberson, John Legend, Maroon 5, Common, Jill Scott, Amy Winehouse, Chrisette Michele, Anthony Hamilton, The Roots.

What's your most unusual or impressive skill?

Demolishing kitchens and assembling cabinets.

What are your favorite books?

72 Hour Hold by Bebe Moore Campbell, Oh, the Places You'll Go! by Dr. Seuss, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou, Home Improvement 1-2-3 by The Home Depot.

What made you choose to work at Nestlé Purina?

Nestlé Purina targets the nutrition and well-being of our pets. The company strives to keep the ones close to us happy and healthy and I strive to do the same in my life. Nestlé Purina stands behinds its products and people and the community. I enjoy being part of a team with shared values for quality, health, and community.

What motivates you to continue working at Nestlé Purina?

The people. I have never worked with a more passionate, driven, and focused group. The Nestlé Purina culture is ingrained into all interactions. The knowledge and experience of everyone lends to a strong, successful environment. My colleagues truly enjoy working for an industry leader, and it shows in their performance and dedication. Seeing all of the playful and energetic pets at work is also a definite plus.

What has been the most rewarding thing about working at Nestlé Purina?

The constant interaction with a diverse working environment. Nestlé is an industry leader in areas outside of pet care and I love being part of such a large, dynamic, successful organization. Learning from others in the same field, as well as learning about different areas, is extremely interesting and inspiring.

Describe your greatest experience with Nestlé Purina.

My greatest experience was having lunch with the CEO. Our CEO was interested in how well management’s perception of the company culture aligned with the associates’ perception. The lunch meeting was the most dynamic and enlightening experience I have had thus far. We were able to hear firsthand how Mr. McGinnis perceived the current culture of the company and the future of the organization. Mr. McGinnis was extremely open, candid, and interested in our views.

What is the most gratifying component about your current role?

Understanding the relationship between the balance sheet of Nestlé Purina and Nestlé worldwide. I appreciate knowing that we are not a stand-alone organization and seeing how changes in our financials can impact Nestlé as a whole.

What has Nestlé Purina done to help you develop professionally or personally?

Nestlé Purina has a wide offering of both classroom and online courses to aid in professional and personal development. Just today, I took a course on motivation and engagement, which are extremely applicable to my daily interactions at work and at home. We also have a vast assortment of business books and periodicals in our library. We can even request information on specific topics and receive the information directly from the library.

How has Nestlé Purina supported your work-life balance?

Nestlé Purina offers many “perks” to working at the Square that support my work-life balance. The on-site fitness center allows me to exercise before work, during lunch, and after work. During the holidays, the vendors at the Square allow me an efficient and cost effective way to complete some of my holiday shopping. Additionally, the services offered by the Store are amazing—I have utilized the license renewal and Honeybaked Ham ordering on numerous occasions. The newest initiative, Destination Health, has provided incentives to healthy behaviors such as increased physical exercise and relaxation, and increased fruit and vegetable intake. I have been able to track my progress online, receive prizes for reaching various milestones, and have been matched with a Life Style coach to further balance my work and person life.

What is your favorite thing to do when you are not working?

I love spending time with family and friends. I also have a passion for interior design and community outreach. I enjoy watching home improvement programs and reading latest trends in interior design. I am very active with Matthews-Dickey Boys’ and Girls’ Club and Big Brother Big Sisters. I enjoy programs that help foster the growth of our children. I love that I have a positive impact on someone’s life!