Transforming a Temporary Job into a Woman-Owned Company: CEO Anna Sinagra’s Story
Anna poses in the showroom at Office Express.
In honor of National Business Women’s Week, we’re highlighting a woman who works with diligence and heart every day – our very own CEO, Anna Sinagra.
As a woman who remained driven and motivated in a previously male-driven industry, Anna shares her moments of growth and bits of wisdom as she describes finding her passion in leadership and service – but we’ll let her tell it.
What inspired you to lead Office Express, and how has your vision for creating better workplaces evolved since you started?
I started in the industry at entry level over 20 years ago and worked in almost every aspect of the business. When I started at OEX, I came in as a customer service rep and worked my way up into VP of sales... and now owner.
The longstanding joke around the office is that when I started here, it was going to be temporary because I had been in the industry for a few years already and it wasn't where I thought I wanted to stay. As time went on, I really enjoyed what I was doing and enjoyed working at Office Express.
I knew if the day came that I wouldn't be working for Mike (former owner of OEX), I would only work for myself, and it would be doing what I enjoyed. I wanted to create the sort of environment that people wanted to be excited about and that people enjoy being a part of every day.
As a woman leading in a traditionally male-dominated industry, what’s been one of your biggest challenges — and how did you turn it into a growth opportunity?
When I started out, I often felt like I had to prove myself a little more. Instead of letting that discourage me, I used it as motivation to really know my stuff — to be the person who clients and colleagues could count on for expertise and follow-through.
Over time, I realized that being a woman gave me a valuable edge in how I connect with people and approach design. It taught me to lean into communication, relationship-building, and attention to detail. Those “differences” ended up being some of my biggest strengths.
“Growth usually happens when you take the leap before feeling fully prepared.”
What advice would you share with women who want to step into leadership roles or start their own business but feel hesitant to take that first leap?
I’d say don’t wait until you feel 100% ready because you probably never will. Growth usually happens when you take the leap before you feel completely prepared. For me, every time I’ve stepped into something new, I’ve learned by doing, asking questions, and surrounding myself with people who know things I don’t. You don’t have to have everything figured out from day one... just start, stay consistent, and keep showing up.
What’s a book, podcast, or resource you’re loving right now — whether it’s industry-related or just something that keeps you motivated and inspired?
It’s people who keep me motivated more than any single book or podcast. I get a lot of energy from hearing other people’s stories, how they built something, overcame challenges, or found new ways to grow. I love learning new things, whether it’s from a client, a coworker, or even someone in a completely different industry.
That curiosity keeps me inspired. I think when you stay open to learning and surround yourself with people who are passionate and driven, it naturally keeps your own momentum going.
Anna’s passion for people and her belief in creating spaces that truly matter reflect the heart of who we are at OEX. Her journey reminds us that leadership is about showing by example how to be a little more joyful every day in our work despite the odds.
That’s what we strive to bring to every client partnership. We craft workplaces that foster connection, focus, and pride, so that your work can bring you more joy and keep you inspired.
We’ve found our motivation here at OEX — and you deserve it in your workspace, too.
