As Office Manager, Tanya Barr makes sure everything runs smoothly for her colleagues in Stringo’s US team in Southfield, Michigan. In this interview, she shares her experiences of changing industries, mixing work and family life, and how her passion for yoga has helped her stay strong through difficult times.
Are you from Michigan originally?
"Yes, I was born and raised in Monroe, Michigan, where I still live. It’s a small town south of Detroit. My children are close by, and my two grandchildren live just down the road. The oldest is 13, and the youngest is seven. They’re my little sweethearts."
What does your role as Office Manager entail?
“It’s really varied and includes everything from using our marketing tool and planning events to handling accounts receivables.”
What’s your favourite part of the job?
“I enjoy the social aspects, especially going to cool events like the Barrett-Jackson show, museum auctions or the SEMA Garage to talk about Stringo and our products. The atmosphere is always positive; people are happy and having a good time. But I also like working at home or at the office, with just the four of us. All in all, it’s a great job!”
Any challenging aspects you’d like to share?
“Before joining Stringo, I was in the healthcare sector for more than 30 years, mainly as a cardiovascular technician. So, the change of industry has been the biggest challenge for me. I’m still learning about sales, marketing, and the business side of things. But there are similarities as well. Both jobs require good communication and people skills.”
What’s it like working for a Swedish company while being based in the US?
“I love Sweden—it’s such a unique, beautiful country. The culture seems more laid-back compared to America, where the pace is intense. I appreciate getting a little bit of Sweden here in the US. It’s given me a different perspective. I’m also impressed by what Stringo has achieved in the last 30 years. And by Nina as a CEO. I’ve met her several times in Sweden and over here, and she’s just a wonderful, genuine person. Stringo is a great company, and she’s made it that way.”
You have another job apart from Stringo; tell us about that!
“Yes, I teach yoga at the local YMCA. I’ve taught a wide range of fitness classes for 20 years, including pilates, kickboxing, and being a personal trainer, but yoga is my main focus. It’s helped me get through difficult times. In 2012, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to have chemotherapy and extensive surgery. Although the illness doesn’t define me, there’s definitely a ‘before’ and ‘after’. It gives you a new baseline of life. But I kept doing yoga throughout my entire treatment, and I’m glad I was able to. It made me feel better. And as soon as I could, I started teaching classes again. I’m super passionate about it.”
