This month, we sat down with Senior Benefits Manager Denisse Mejia to talk about her career growth, her experience at Upside, and the importance of connection and community.

Q: What do you love most about our work culture here at Upside? 

Denisse: What I love most about the culture at Upside is the sense of collaboration and support from the team. From my first day at Upside, everyone has been so supportive and genuinely invested in each other’s success. It’s been such a welcoming environment, and I’ve had the opportunity to learn and grow so much in such a short amount of time. This level of support and growth is something I truly value.

Q: How did you get into the employee benefits as a career?

Denisse: I actually started my career in the HRIS (human resources information system) space, where I gained a strong foundation in HR systems and processes. During that time, I had the opportunity to work closely with the benefits team on various projects, which sparked my interest in employee benefits. 

I was fortunate to have a supportive team leader who recognized my potential and helped guide me into the benefits field. Through her mentorship, I was able to explore the strategic and operational aspects of employee benefits, leading me into my current role as a Sr. Benefits Manager. It’s been such a rewarding journey, and I’m grateful for the exposure and support I’ve received along the way.

Q: How has your role evolved since joining Upside?

Denisse: Over the past few months, my role and focus has really expanded into a more strategic approach. By analyzing our current benefit offerings and gathering employee feedback, I have had the opportunity to make recommendations on ways we can better meet employees' needs while aligning to our overall company goals. This change is helping me make a bigger impact and create a better experience for our employees. 

I’ve also had the privilege of co-leading our Latino affinity group, Unidos, which has given me a chance to work on initiatives that support diversity within our workplace and community.

Q: What are your hobbies outside of work? 

Denisse: Outside of work, I really enjoy woodworking and building furniture pieces for my home. I love the process of designing and creating items from scratch, whether it's furniture or a small craft. Working with my hands is not only a relaxing escape but also a rewarding challenge that allows me to tap into my creativity. It brings me so much joy to see my ideas come to life.

Q: What is the most powerful lesson you’ve learned personally? 

Denisse: The most powerful lesson I’ve learned personally is the importance of connection and unity. Throughout my experiences, I’ve come to realize that by coming together as a team or community, we can accomplish so much more than we can alone.

I truly believe that when we unite and connect with one another, we can overcome challenges and drive meaningful change.

‍

Looking for a career that invests in your future? We're hiring! Learn more about our open roles and apply. 

‍