Mirkka started at Black Moda in January 2016 in customer service for production clients. Over the past ten years, she has witnessed the development of the industry, the growing focus on sustainability, and the company’s move from Pyynikki to Pirkkala. Working with brands, production, and product development has brought both challenges and successes. To celebrate this milestone anniversary, we asked Mirkka ten questions.
1. When did you start at Black Moda and in what role?
I started working at Black Moda in January 2016 in customer service for our production clients. My role involves selling our production services to clients and forwarding their orders and related instructions to the factory.
This includes handling matters related to products and materials, as well as solving challenges together with the rest of the product team. We inform our clients about new materials and opportunities and support them in their work.
The end result is to deliver production according to the client’s wishes on a true “turnkey” basis.
2. What originally made you apply for a job at Black Moda?
I was looking for interesting new job opportunities within our industry when I came across Black Moda’s job advertisement. I wasn’t familiar with Black Moda beforehand, but after reading the job description, I immediately felt that it was exactly the kind of role that suited me and where I could apply my professional expertise.
I decided to apply, and that feeling only grew stronger during the job interview.
3. Do you remember your first day at work – what was it like?
I remember there was a sense of nervous excitement, as expected, along with a lot of new things to learn and new people to meet. I also remember how warmly I was welcomed into the team. I truly felt at home and received excellent onboarding.
At that time, Black Moda’s office was located in the old Pyynikki Tricot factory building in Tampere, and the team was smaller than it is today. Over the past ten years, the small team has grown, and the office has moved to Pirkkala.
Today, in addition to the production team, our company also includes e-commerce professionals – something we didn’t have ten years ago.
4. How has your work or role developed over the past 10 years?
We have gained many new clients, and with them come new and interesting ideas and innovations that continuously help us move forward.
In recent years, I have also been more involved in product development for our own brands.
There really is no typical workday, as it depends on which brand I am working with at any given time. My days are largely spent at the computer, handling and monitoring orders, production matters, and deliveries.
On the other hand, product development tasks such as prototype fittings, approving and commenting on colors and prints for different productions are also part of my daily responsibilities.
5. What inspires you most in your work?
Working with interesting clothing brands. The textile industry itself is fascinating and constantly evolving, as I have noticed during my more than 20-year career.
New innovations and product development projects are always inspiring.
6. Is there a particular moment or achievement at Black Moda that you are especially proud of?
No single moment stands out above the others. However, I feel especially proud every time a product development project is successfully completed after significant time and effort — and the result is a well-functioning product that brings joy to its users
7. What is the best thing about the Black Moda work community?
The people, both in Finland and Portugal. One of the great strengths of our work community is the diversity of professionals of different ages and at different stages of their careers.
Each person contributes with their own expertise and supports and complements one another. In my opinion, that is one of Black Moda’s greatest strengths.
8. How would you describe Black Moda as a workplace in three words?
Interesting, creative, forward-looking.
9. Your three favorite pieces from Black Moda’s production:
- Aarre’s Nooa merino wool dress has been a cornerstone of my winter wardrobe for years. It’s lightweight yet warm.
- Ratia’s Laurel dress from last spring’s collection has become a new favorite and has received many compliments. Its simple design is elevated by the playful and unique placement of stripes.
- As a dress person, I also have to mention Aarre’s 3D tights. They don’t squeeze or feel tight and work perfectly for both everyday wear and special occasions.
9. What makes you excited about the coming years at Black Moda?
The textile industry is constantly evolving, especially in terms of sustainability. New, more ecological materials are being developed, and increasing attention is being paid to responsibility and ethics. This positively challenges us who work in the industry.
There is always something new to learn every day, which is inspiring and motivating. Working together with wonderful colleagues also makes me excited about the years ahead at Black Moda.