From first employee to employee of the year 2024 – Producer, Joann Mercado Hicks, everybody!
Since joining Windsong Productions in 2011, Jo has become a vital member of our team. From her beginnings as a Production Assistant and PR Manager to her current role as Producer and Production Manager, she is a breathing embodiment of our core value, that “work is love made visible.”
Jo’s contributions extend far and wide, from bringing in talented new Production Assistants like Abby and Jordan to nurturing long-standing relationships with clients such as the City of Ontario and the California Table Grape Commission.
Her presence may be rooted in Los Angeles, however, Jo’s impact is felt across our production studio and beyond due to her genuine curiosity for others and innate relationship-building prowess.
With 14 years under her belt, Jo’s mission to foster diversity on set shines brightly, showcasing her deep commitment to inclusivity in all aspects of our work. Her legacy will reflect her high level of care, love, and respect not only for the intricate production process but for each crew member bringing the vision to life. Her meticulous organization and genuine empathy for others make her a producorial force to be reckoned with.
Beyond her impressive professional achievements as a producer, Jo is a passionate advocate for social justice, volunteering with Colin Kaepernick’s “Know Your Rights Camp”. Her work with this organization is what she calls her “me time”—and that, alone, tells you so much about who Jo is as a human.
When looking at the road ahead, Jo is not one to shy away from a creative challenge. She continues to push the company toward new genres of production and thinks big when it comes to what’s next. “I want to know and be immersed in what it takes to produce a feature or a scripted show,” said Jo. “A whole new level of stress, the unknown and fear I’d like to unlock.”
Jo’s story will be one of inclusivity and precision with storied footnotes citing “impeccable set-style” and “solid crafty game.” We could not think of a more passionate creative or a more deserving recipient of this year’s “Employee of the Year.”
Three cheers for Jo!
