Johanna joined Black Moda in February 2016, working with production customers. Over the past ten years, her role has evolved and her days have been filled with developing new products, collaboration, and continuous learning. Johanna has also been involved in developing Aarre’s popular The 3D Pantyhose. To celebrate her ten-year anniversary, we asked Johanna ten questions.
1. When did you start at Black Moda and in what role?
I started on leap day, February 29, 2016. So technically my anniversary only comes around every 2.5 years 😉.
I handled production customers’ orders and communication between the factory and the customer. Mostly knitwear products, but quite soon our own-brand socks and tights were added as well, since I had already worked with them for several years before.
2. What originally made you apply for a job at Black Moda?
The company seemed very interesting and the role versatile. I was looking for new challenges, which this job has definitely provided.
3. Do you remember your first day at work – what was it like?
The first day was of course exciting. New colleagues and lots of new things to learn. Everyone welcomed me very warmly right away and it immediately felt comfortable. At that time Black Moda’s office was in the old Pyynikki Tricot factory building, where you could really feel the presence of history. Mirkka had started a few weeks before me as a new employee, so learning everything together with her was more fun.
4. How has your work or role developed over the past 10 years?
The basics haven’t really changed much, but a lot has developed since then. Systems have changed, the office moved to Pirkkala, and hopefully I’ve also developed as a professional.
I still coordinate the everyday matters of our production customers. In addition, I’ve taken on more tasks related to the production of our own brands, and more and more sock and tights production. There are also new products coming, but more about those later 😉. Every workday is very different and interesting.
Alongside my main work, I also act as a team lead and try to help and support colleagues in the everyday rush.
5. What inspires you most in your work?
Every day you can learn something new and get excited again. The days are full of interesting twists and events. I get to work with skilled and creative colleagues whose support I can rely on. By the end of this year I will have worked in the textile industry for 20 years, and during that time there has been a lot of renewal and some unusual situations as well. It has never been boring.
6. Is there a particular moment or achievement at Black Moda that you are especially proud of?
I had already worked with hosiery products for several years before joining Black Moda and had tested a lot of different tights. With that professional experience, I can proudly say that Aarre’s The 3D Pantyhose really are the best in the world, and I’ve been involved in creating them. I still test other tights from time to time, but none have replaced ours yet, and I always come back to Aarre’s tights <3.
7. What is the best thing about the Black Moda work community?
Everyone can be themselves. We all have our own strengths, and by supporting those we can achieve amazing things together. We work and solve situations together. There is strength in the team!
I’m also happy to call the Black Moda Portugal staff my colleagues, which I see as a great asset and a big advantage in everyday work.
8. How would you describe Black Moda as a workplace in three words?
Professional, helpful and collaborative.
9. Your three favorite pieces from Black Moda’s production:
- Aarre’s The 3D Pantyhose are simply the best in the world!
- Aarre’s Filipa Merino Wool Dress is beautiful and comfortable to wear. Even in very cold weather it feels like a reliably warm hug.
- Ratia Nanna Trousers have become a trusted everyday piece. Easy, high-quality and perfectly fitted.
10. What makes you excited about the coming years at Black Moda?
The answer is pretty much the same as in the previous questions. Black Moda people, both in Pirkkala and further away, are like one big family. It’s nice to come to work every day and look forward to what the next day will bring. A supportive, knowledgeable and fun work community makes even a grey day feel nicer. The textile industry is facing big challenges and changes, so I’m curious to see how things will evolve and improve.