A Journey of Growth: How Zanna Found Her Place at IPC
You’ve been with IPC for more than two decades. How did it all begin?
I started in 2003. Honestly, I was just looking for a job at the time. I pulled into the IPC parking lot, and Kim Kaufman handed me an application. I filled it out and got hired as a picker and packer. My shift was from 11:30 to 7, and I did that for about a year. From there, I worked in receiving, then became a receiving specialist, then a lead, and eventually a supervisor. I worked my way up from the bottom, step by step.
That’s an incredible journey. What has kept you here for so long?
The people. IPC has grown and changed a lot over the years, but the vibe is the same. There’s a sense of family and teamwork here that hasn’t gone away.
What does a typical day look like for you?
My day starts with my team. I like to talk to them first thing, see how they’re doing, ask about their night, and discuss any issues from the previous day. It helps open everyone up. Then we go over our daily tasks. I check product locations, errors, and labels. I’m on the floor a lot, making sure everything is where it should be. People might not realize how much goes into making sure orders go out right, but it’s constant movement and attention to detail.
What’s one moment in your time at IPC that stands out?
I don’t think it’s just one moment. Every day brings a challenge and something new to learn. I’m curious by nature, so I like to dig into the system and figure things out on my own. That curiosity keeps me growing and helps me support others on my team.
How do you define success in your role?
It starts in receiving. If we make a mistake there, it affects everything that follows. The pickers can’t do their job right, and the orders might not reach members correctly. So success means paying attention, being responsible, and making sure every product that leaves the warehouse is right.
You’ve seen IPC evolve quite a bit. What’s one lesson you’ve learned that still guides you today?
Care about your job and the people around you. No matter what kind of day you’re having, you still have to take responsibility for your work. Members rely on us to get their products, so even if you’re in a bad mood, you still give your best. That mindset matters.
You lead a strong team. How do you keep them motivated?
I try to be the kind of leader I needed when I first started. I talk to everyone, check in with them, and make sure they know they’re supported. If someone’s struggling, I want them to know I care. Mistakes happen, but they’re also chances to learn. I remind my team that I started right where they are now. That gives them hope that they can grow too.
Outside of work, how do you spend your time?
I love walking and exercising. I also spend time in the hot sauna or biking. It helps me recharge.
