When it comes to running the office at West Allis Blue, or taking a photo at a big-name band concert, Jean Bisek knows when to call the shot.
Jean Bisek, Office/Purchasing Manager • West Allis Blue
ReproMAX is always interested in Partner company employees who make a difference in their business. Each month we’ll take a snapshot of someone who brings special talents to their position and makes a difference in how their company operates. If you have someone employed in your company who you think would be the most interesting employee of the month, let us know!
So once again, as ReproMAX was searching for the out-of-the ordinary in our Partner company network, Jean Bisek the Office Manager at West Allis Blue popped up “out of the blue” and we couldn’t have been more intrigued.
The title Office Manager really doesn’t do her justice. From what we understand, she’s the heartbeat of the company that makes West Allis Blue run smoothly and keeps their customers coming back for more. Jean’s role at West Allis includes purchasing, scheduling deliveries, helping customers as they walk in the door as well as receiving product. And she’s been doing this for 24 years.
We sat down with Jean to ask her a few questions about what she does and what’s going on at West Allis Blue these days.
We hear you’re an accomplished photographer, how did you begin?
I started using my photography skills on the job for the architectural projects that needed photos. Since we do a lot of sign graphics, wall graphics, signage and frosted glass, someone needed to document the projects so we could get them on social media. I just kind of walked into this part of my job.
Then about 8 or 9 years ago, I picked up photography as a hobby. I haven’t had any real training, just a few classes here and there. I’m not a pro but a hobbyist. I feel like I have an eye for it. I see shots ahead of time. Plus I enjoy it!
How did you get into concert photography?
I just stumbled into it really. I’m a big concert-goer. And just for fun, I took my camera with me and started taking photos. I’d post them on Facebook and bands would contact me and ask permission to use the photos.
Who has published your photos?
The Easy Money Band backs up a major country music star and they have used my photos on their website. Band members themselves have paid me for my photos. It’s a great way to make extra money!
What’s interesting is some musical instrument manufacturers have contacted me and asked permission to use my photos. They see them posted on social media. One is Victor Violins and the other is Paiste—they make cymbals and drum sticks.
What do you think your biggest assets are at work?
My ability to multi-task has always served me well at West Allis—keeping a phone call going, directing a driver to his destination and placing an order—all at the same time! Plus, I can usually think three steps ahead on each of these tasks. When I went on vacation last week, I made sure the inventory was ordered so no one had to cover it.
So what’s your advice to others in the digital printing industry?
It’s constantly changing. From when I started 24 years ago, until now West Allis is a completely different company. Back then it was a blueprint shop, and I started in the back! Today, in order to keep up, we’re all digital. Seriously, you have to evolve.
When I started, there were six or seven employees at West Allis. Today, there are over 15 employees—one of which is my husband Andy who does the CAD drawings.
Do you like to disconnect and if so what do you do to relieve stress?
My sanity every day is Crossfit! Daily. I like to run half marathons too. These definitely are stress relievers. I go to Crossfit five days every week. I love the class support, you work out with 10 or 12 other people and you’re experiencing it together. Everyone is a friend because we’ve suffered through it together! It’s a community. In fact, I go with my Mom and she loves it! I’ve been at it just short of 3 years now and it’s a life saver. Plus, my husband and I bike ride every chance we get.
Do you use any special time management techniques?
I work best with lists. I keep running lists on my desk and it’s really satisfying because I write down what I need to do then I get to check it off!