Real People, Unreal Tech: Diana Vera

Streamlining workflows & driving efficiency:

Meet Diana Vera 

Creative, collaborative and endlessly curious, Diana Vera is the kind of teammate who makes work easier and more enjoyable. She is known for her intelligence and problem-solving skills, as well as for her approachability and kindness. At LCP Media, she’s the force behind the scenes. Diana keeps everything running smoothly, building and refining tools in Quickbase and HubSpot. She helps teams stay organized, connected and efficient. Whether it’s automating a task, improving how data flows between departments or redesigning an internal app, Diana’s work makes life easier for everyone across the company.

Her path to this role has been anything but ordinary. With a degree in mathematics, three internships at NASA and a background in software development, Diana brings a rare blend of technical expertise, brilliance and creativity. That experience prepared her to look at problems from every angle, whether she is rethinking a workflow, revamping an application or collaborating with colleagues to design something entirely new.

Outside of work, Diana’s creativity takes many forms. She paints, sculpts, knits and even builds miniature furniture for dollhouse projects. She is deeply connected to her family and proud to be one of four siblings. That foundation of closeness and creativity has shaped the way she works today: focused, empathetic and always looking ahead.

At LCP Media, Diana channels her brilliance into building processes that scale, tools that people want to use and systems that reflect the collaborative culture she values most.

What originally drew you to LCP Media, and what made you decide this was the right place for you?
During my initial phone interview, I found it really easy to talk to my interviewer and future manager, Nick Sheetz. Anyone who has done job interviews knows they can sometimes be awkward or intimidating, but right away I got the impression that I would fit in well at LCP. He seemed like someone I could work well with, which was especially important since we are a team of two. That instinct proved correct, and I am very proud of the improvements we have made together as LCP’s Business Process team.

How did you first get into business process improvement, and what has kept you passionate about this type of work?
Actually, this is my first time in a business process role. Before this, I was a software developer. I really love working continually on a system for the same group of people. It has allowed me to develop my understanding of user needs far beyond what I typically experienced as a developer, where projects often had quick turnaround times before moving on to the next thing. The more time I spend working on tools for LCP Media’s growth, the more invested I become. I also value learning from past decisions by constantly interacting with users to see what works and what doesn’t.

Looking back, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to someone just starting out in process management or operations?
Document everything. And simpler is usually better.

Role & impact

What’s the most rewarding part of your role?
I really enjoy building tools for a team I interact with every day. Working on tools that I also use myself helps me understand which improvements are truly essential versus which are just nice to have.

Is there a project or accomplishment here that you’re especially proud of?
I am proud of all the work we have done, but I especially enjoyed improving vendor management and feedback collection. It was a completely new feature for us, and I had a great time collaborating with Meghan, project coordinator/ vendor manager to bring it to life.

Is there a current initiative you’re working on that really excites you?
Definitely. We are currently working on the second major revamp of our Quickbase app. I was a new hire when the first version rolled out, so this time I am especially excited to contribute more ideas and work more closely with Nick on simplifying and improving how everything functions.

If you could swap roles with anyone at LCP Media for a day, whose job would you want to try and why?
Katie Rose, in marketing! In my personal life I am a very creative person, so I would love the chance to design some marketing graphics. It seems like a lot of fun.

If you had to sum up your approach to collaboration or problem-solving in just three words, what would they be?
Curiosity, creativity and respect.

Do you have a go-to productivity hack or workflow trick that helps you stay on top of complex processes?
When things get complicated, I take a step back and “squint” at the problem metaphorically. Often, that bigger-picture view makes it clear what can be simplified or pared down.

Life outside of work

When you’re not analyzing workflows and streamlining operations, how do you like to relax and recharge?
Painting! I love to paint, sculpt, knit and make mini furniture for dollhouse projects. Anything creative really. I also LOVE to read. I am always reading! 

What’s something fun or unexpected that most people don’t know about you?
During my undergrad years I was lucky enough to intern with NASA three times. Those were some of the most memorable experiences of my life. Also, I can write with my feet. Not well, but I can do it. (LOL) And for fun at my wedding will be a Wicked theme, and my shoes are sparkling ruby red slippers.

What was your very first job, and what lessons from it still stick with you today?
I was a cashier at Jewel. I learned that they should let cashiers sit on a chair while working because standing up all day to scan items really takes a toll on your back and feet. There’s no reason that job cannot be done seated. Hey, it works at Aldi.

If you could take a dream vacation anywhere right now, where would you go and why?
Salzburg, Austria. I love mountains and schnitzel, and I’m actually looking at it for my honeymoon. They even have a Sound of Music experience where a street quartet will play the soundtrack, which sounds incredible.

If you could have dinner with any three people, past or present, who would you choose and what would you want to talk about?
Joe Strummer of The Clash, John Steinbeck and Lady Gaga. I think the four of us could put together a masterpiece of a musical. It would probably be 99% them, but maybe I could do the cover art.

Is there anything else people should know about you?
I’m very close with my family and proud to be one of four siblings. My bridal party is going to made up entirely of cousins, which shows how central family is in my life. My mom is also amazing. When my Kermit the Frog costume for Halloween was delivered to her house, she put on the oversized head and sent me photos. That moment pretty much sums up how fun and supportive my family is.

Nick Sheetz, director of business process and analytics, shares: 

From day one, Diana has been a pleasure to work with. She consistently goes the extra mile to support the team, and her dedication and positive attitude make a real difference. We’re a stronger company because she’s here.

Danny Hesslau, manager of client success, adds:

Working with Diana Vera has been a pleasure from day one. She has a deep understanding of the internal systems we use and consistently provides valuable support when adjustments are needed to improve our workflows.

Her positive attitude and willingness to help in every situation make her an invaluable asset to the company.

Diana is the definition of a team player, and our organization is stronger with her on the team.

Katie Rose, marketing, shares: 

Diana has an impeccable ability to inspire others while giving them a calm sense of confidence. She is absolutely brilliant, yet in the most humble of ways. Her genuine curiosity and fascination with learning make those around her feel more capable and assured in their own strengths. I have never met someone more unapologetically themselves, and she never fails to make me laugh. Diana has been an incredible asset to me personally and has become a great friend. She is truly one of a kind, and LCP Media is so lucky to have her.

Ashley Aldaco, sales, adds: 

Diana helps keep our sales operations running smoothly every day. She has a deep understanding of our workflows and is always ready to jump in, whether it’s sharing her knowledge, solving a problem  or helping to improve a process. Her approachable and collaborative nature makes working with her effortless, and her calm, steady presence helps keep the team organized and moving forward. On top of that, I love how she always manages to find humor in any situation. It makes working together even more enjoyable.