Meet Liliana in Human Resources

Describe your educational background. Where did you study, what degrees did you receive?

I went to UC Santa Cruz and earned a B.A. in theater arts. I then attended the American Film Institute and earned an MFA in screenwriting. I am currently working toward my certification in Human Resources Management at UCLA Extension.

Describe your career history. What are your professional experiences prior to your current position?

I have had quite a colorful career path—from waiting tables to temping to being the CEO of a now-defunct independent film production company. Before coming to FremantleMedia, I worked at EMI-Capital Special Markets for five years as an Operations Coordinator. I handled pre-production on CDs, scheduling, dealing with our manufacturing plant, and customer service.

What are your current roles and responsibilities?

I think of myself as the information hub for the company. I work on processing the payroll, raises, vacation accruals, and visas to name a few things. I also coordinate and handle office issues and of course assist Ellen [VP HR] and manage her schedule.

Describe a typical day at your job.

Get to work, deal with any immediate issues (“we need an office for a visiting exec NOW!”), go through e-mail, coordinate meeting requests with Ellen, meet with Ellen and touch base on what to prioritize that day. I try to get through as many things on my to-do list for the day as possible, and deal with interruptions along the way (“How many vacation days do I have left?” to “How do I choose a doctor?” to “Why didn’t I receive all my overtime on my last check?”).

What attracted you to your company and position? What is your favorite thing about your job? 

At the time I interviewed with FMNA I was not familiar with the company, but the fact that it was a different arm of the entertainment industry and the benefits offered (including the same holiday schedule I had enjoyed at EMI) were very attractive. Most importantly, there was the opportunity to start a new career path in Human Resources. What I like most about my job is that every day is different, that I am challenged and given the opportunity to grow. Working with Ellen has really opened my eyes as to how much is possible in my job, and that has made it more exciting. And the people that I’ve had the opportunity to meet here have been exceptional.

What has been your most memorable moment (so far) in your job? 

I was asked to take over the coordinating of our office move from Santa Monica to Burbank a month and a half before the move date. In the whirlwind of a new boss and all else, I was sure that something would fall through the cracks (did I mention that I was also newly pregnant with my first child?). After many a long night and more than a few glitches along the way, I have to say it was a great day when we moved in, all our computers were up, our phones working, and all our belongings had made the trip. Whew!

If you could meet anyone from history, living or dead, who would it be? 

I would love to hang out and have a tequila with Frida Kahlo.

If I were a cartoon character, I would be:

Speedy Gonzalez.

What qualities do you feel are necessary to be a successful employee at your company? 

You need to be adaptable to change, willing to pitch in wherever needed, have a sense of humor, and not take yourself too seriously.

Have you had the opportunity to travel as part of your job?

Yes, I have had the opportunity to visit our NY offices—Bertelsmann and Random House.

Do you feel you have a good understanding of Bertelsmann and its corporate culture? 

I think that in this last year I have gotten a better grasp of the culture. I think that having reviewed the survey results this year and seeing how our company wants to implement changes based on those results has given me a better understanding.

My favorite book, movie and artist are:

Books: Geek Love and Middlesex
Movies: Ma Vie En Rose and Double Happiness
Music: Café Tacuba, The National, Andrew Bird, Iron & Wine