Welcome to the Employee Spotlight series! This week, we are highlighting Tamara Rose. Tamara is a Vendor Correspondent and joined the SpendMend team nearly two and a half years ago. When asked what she looks forward to in her future with SpendMend, Tamara simply says, “Longevity.” As a Vendor Correspondent, Tamara enjoys connecting with various people daily and building long-term partnerships based on trust and communication. She explains, “People need to be heard. They need to know they matter. When we can provide that, we make a difference and an impact.” Tamara always strives to approach conversations with understanding and encourages others to do the same, highlighting how this approach can truly transform interactions. Be sure to read the full interview below where she shares a memorable experience with a supplier,, and was able to connect with on a deeper level. Tamara is originally from Huron, South Dakota, and lives in Shelby, Michigan. She studied at Bride School of Ministries, focusing on abuse and trauma, driven by her passion for supporting emotional and mental healing and offering hope to others. Outside of work, Tamara loves spending time with her grandchildren. She has a packed schedule with them this summer—from traveling to South Dakota to swimming lessons! Their favorite activities include singing, reading books, and doing arts and crafts. Recently, they have made pottery and painted their creations! Baking cookies and making candy is a beloved tradition during the holidays. If you have any favorite holiday cookie recipes, be sure to share them with Tamara! Another fun fact about Tamara is that she loves to sing! From her earliest memories, she has been humming and singing. She recalls sitting beside her grandma at the piano, singing while she played, and attending church for worship. “I just remember always singing with my whole heart,” she stated. Tamara enjoys a variety of musical genres and has even written many songs herself. She primarily listens to Worship music. Among her favorite artists are Dolly Parton and Lauren Daigle. Tamara isn’t shy about singing in the spotlight! She has performed in church, sang karaoke, and even sang at weddings—including her own!
Tamara is a great Vendor Correspondent. We asked Cierra Kilpatrick, Vendor Correspondent, about Tamara, and she said, “Tamara is an exceptional colleague to work with. She is proactive in seeking clarification when needed and ensures that I don’t miss anything if I’m out of the office. Her positive attitude and engaging personality make working with her a pleasure. Overall, she is a dedicated and dependable professional who contributes greatly to our pod and the SpendMend team.” We couldn’t have said it better ourselves! Thank you, Tamara!
Interview with Tamara:
What is your role at SpendMend?
Vendor Correspondent
How long have you been with SpendMend?
2 years, 5 months
How did you first learn about SpendMend?
From my friend Lisa Nagelkerk, who is a Claims Analyst at SpendMend.
What three words would you use to describe SpendMend?
Great work place.
Where are you located/from?
I live in Shelby, Michigan. I am from Huron, South Dakota.
Where did you go for higher education?
I studied at Bride School of Ministries and took classes in abuse and trauma through the school system I used to work for. I also worked at a healing center, where we received additional training.
What did you study and why?
I studied and worked in these areas because there are many hurting people, and I love seeing people find emotional and mental healing and hope. Growing up, I experienced a lot of unfortunate events and trauma. I found healing in Jesus and through those who ministered to me with their guidance and the training they had received in this area. I have coached and counseled and still utilize the skills I have learned and the compassion I have been given to listen to and help others.
Why do you look forward to coming to work?
I enjoy communicating with various people every day, and I love working from home.
Before working at SpendMend, what was the most unusual or interesting job you’ve ever had?
I worked at Spiritual Care as a consultant. I listened, coached, taught, and encouraged my clients as they healed from trauma and complex life events that kept them stuck or interfered with their lives.
What is one fun fact about you?
I love to sing.
Was there a specific moment or person that sparked your love for singing?
My grandma played the piano and I used to sit with her and sing as she played. I have been singing and humming from my earliest memories. I used to go to church with my grandma and I loved worshiping, and I just remember always singing with my whole heart.
What’s your go-to song to sing?
I had several favorites as a child. I Love to Tell the Story, He Lives, In the Garden, and The Beautiful Garden of Prayer were regulars for me. I also loved Dolly Parton and would sing her song I Will Always Love You. I enjoy many genres and have written several songs myself. I have not published them, but we have sang them in church.
Do you sing professionally, in a choir, karaoke, or just for fun?
I have sang in choirs, done karaoke, sang in weddings including my own, been on the church worship team, and led worship and sang solos.
Who’s your favorite artist or musical inspiration?
I can’t really think of a favorite artist or musical inspiration now, but I would probably say Dolly Parton was one growing up. Worship music is what I listen to most. I like Lauren Daigle and many others.
What type of music or podcasts do you listen to during the workday?
I love Christian worship music. I love to listen to stories of people overcoming insurmountable odds.
Do you have any hobbies or participate in any activities outside of work?
I love to spend my time interacting with my grandchildren and doing arts and crafts with them.
What do you enjoy most about spending time with your grandchildren?
The thing I enjoy most about my grandchildren is just being with them. I love to sing to them and with them. We also enjoy books together.
Do you have any upcoming plans or things you’re looking forward to doing with them?
We will all be going to South Dakota together this summer to visit family and attend a wedding. My grandson starts his first year of soccer next month, so we are looking forward to that. I love taking them to the lake, and we have a blast there every year. I will also be taking them to swim lessons this summer.
What arts and crafts do you and your grandchildren enjoy the most? We recently made pottery together and then painted it.
Do you have any special traditions or seasonal crafts you like to do together?We enjoy making cookies and candy for the holidays, and they love helping in the kitchen and cooking.
Who do you interact with at work?
Suppliers
Can you describe an interaction when you helped a client or a supplier that stands out in your mind?
A supplier was having a very difficult time. They had been out for a while due to health issues. After we spoke, they were encouraged and thanked me for taking the time to listen, for my genuine care and concern, and for my kind words.
How do you think this kind of human connection impacts long-term partnerships?
It builds long-term partnerships because it builds connection and trust.
What did this experience teach you about the importance of empathy in your role?
People need to be heard and know they matter. When we can provide that, we make a difference and an impact.
What advice would you give to someone in a similar situation, trying to support a client or supplier going through a tough time?
I would say to anyone in a similar situation, make that connection. Step out and encourage them. Let them know you hear them and that they aren’t just another number or a means to the end. It will brighten their day, and it will brighten yours, too.
What was the best compliment you’ve ever been paid by a client or supplier?
They thanked me for being so personable.
What is the best part of serving the healthcare market?
Knowing we are making a difference, knowing more money can go towards what is really important, and knowing we help the healthcare market reduce costs while maintaining quality service.
If you work at the Grand Rapids headquarters, what is your favorite Recovery Room Activity?
The break room is wonderful.
What has been your experience with SpendMend community service events?
I enjoyed meeting coworkers and interacting with them.
Do you want to shout out a co-worker who has helped or inspired you at SpendMend?
Cierra Kilpatrick has been friendly and helpful. She responds quickly to questions, and she is always happy to help. We enjoy chatting off and on.
What advice do you have for prospective candidates who want to join the SpendMend team?
Go for it!
What has been your proudest accomplishment at SpendMend?
Doing my part to see us continue to be a success as a whole.
What is something you’re looking forward to for your future at SpendMend?
Longevity.