Nine years, two months, and countless highs and lows later, Micah Morta stands as an unshakable pillar of XS Multimedia. To the team, she’s just “Morts” — no honorifics required. From a hesitant web developer to a hands-on, people-first Operations Manager, Morts’ journey is one of grit, guts, and growth. She’s not the type to back down from a challenge, whether it’s streamlining workflows, navigating loss, or stepping into big shoes. More than keeping the Brutally Creative ship afloat, Morts is steering it forward with resolve and heart.
We checked in with the congenial manager to give us a low-down on her remarkable journey, leadership style, and plans for XS Multimedia. Here’s Morts’ story, in her own words.
What attracted you to the role of Operations Manager, and how did your Web Developer experience prepare you for it?
“During the pandemic, I felt stuck and uncertain about my career path. I explored web development but found it unfulfilling, which made me question if it was truly my future. Reflecting on tasks I used to handle at XS, like admin work, I realized I enjoyed it and felt a greater sense of purpose.
After the pandemic, when Sir Chris asked about my career goals, I shared my interest in admin or management. Though it felt like a big leap from my current role, I accepted the Operations Manager position, knowing it aligned with what I wanted to do.
While my web development experience didn’t directly prepare me for operations management, it shaped my approach. Web development taught me logical decision-making, careful planning, and attention to detail—skills that proved invaluable in managing operations, where even small oversights can disrupt workflows.”
How has XSM changed over the years, and how have you grown as a professional and individual during that time?
“When I started at XSM, most of the employees were as young as I was, and the company, like us, was just starting in the advertising industry. We had a lot to learn, figuring things out on the job. But despite that, everyone was incredibly passionate. We worked hard and celebrated just as hard.
Over the years, XSM gradually matured, and so did we. We shifted from just working hard to working smart, learning from our past mistakes. Personally, I’ve seen my taste in art improve, and professionally, I’ve learned to study things thoroughly before diving into projects. I became more proactive, more responsible, and quicker at creating plans.
As XSM matured, I grew alongside it. I became wiser in my decisions and learned how to maintain a work-life balance without compromising my work ethic.”
What were your expectations when you became the Operations Manager, and how have they evolved?
“I used to think being an Operations Manager was easy—just make plans and execute them. But during my first year as Operations Manager, I realized it’s not just about planning endlessly. There are so many factors to consider when planning operations: finances, employees, clients, and unforeseen circumstances. Many plans don’t push through because of these factors, especially the unexpected ones. So, sometimes, thinking on your feet becomes necessary. I’ve learned to make decisions more quickly.”
How would you describe your leadership style, and how do you like to be perceived?
“My leadership style is centered around being people-focused. I believe in leading as a peer rather than an authority figure, creating an environment where team members feel comfortable approaching me when they’re facing challenges or need support. I strive to be someone they can trust, not just someone who gives orders or expects results. By fostering open communication and collaboration, I want to ensure that my team feels valued and heard. This approach helps build stronger relationships, encourages mutual respect, and ultimately creates a more positive and productive work environment. I believe that when people feel supported and trusted, they are more motivated and committed to contributing their best work.”
What are some challenges in the company that you think need to be addressed?
“My main challenge right now is adjusting to the loss of Sir Chris. For the past nine years, my work life was closely tied to him, and his absence has brought a significant change, especially in decision-making. I used to rely on him for guidance and support with major decisions, so taking on full responsibility for these on my own has been a daunting adjustment. While it’s unfamiliar and challenging, I see it as an opportunity to grow and develop my leadership and decision-making skills, honoring his legacy as I step into this new chapter.”
What do you love most about being part of the XSM team and your role as Operations Manager?
“It may sound cliché, but what I love most about being at XSM and serving as Operations Manager is the people. The culture here is genuinely fun, and I truly enjoy working with everyone. The energy, collaboration, and camaraderie make every challenge more manageable and every success more rewarding. It’s the team that makes XSM such a great place to work, and being part of that is what motivates me every day.”
Who is Morts outside of work? What hobbies or activities do you enjoy?
“I’m a collector and enjoy collecting toys, such as Popmart, Funko, and other collectibles. I also love playing video games, with Mobile Legends, Genshin, and Call of Duty being some of my favorites. When I’m not working, I usually spend my time either buying toys or playing games. It may sound childish, but it helps me reconnect with and heal my inner child.”
What are your short-term and long-term plans for XSM, and how do you envision achieving them?
“For my short-term plans, I want to focus on increasing XSM’s revenue by helping my team bring in new clients. As for the long-term, I’m committed to continuing the five-year plan that Sir Chris shared with us before his untimely passing. I can assure you that there’s still a lot of fight left in XSM, and we’re determined to move forward with strength and purpose.”
What are you most passionate or excited about for 2025?
“For 2025, I’m looking forward to a big comeback for XSM after the tough year of 2024. I’m excited to honor Sir Chris’ legacy by helping make XSM bigger and better. It’s a challenging but motivating goal, and I’m determined to contribute to the company’s growth and success.”
What motivates you to do what you do?
“Honoring Sir Chris’ memory and proving he made the right choice in picking me as XSM’s Operations Manager. I’m driven to carry forward his vision and ensure XSM continues to grow and succeed.”
What message do you have for your mentors, especially Sir Chris?
“To my mentor, boss, and friend, Sir Chris, I just want to say thank you. Thank you for trusting me and for giving me my first award, which was for “Most Friendly” haha. The confidence you gave me became the foundation of my career. Thank you also for being a mentor in a way that never made me feel like I was being mentored. The lessons I learned from you will stay with me for life, not just professionally but also personally. Thank you for everything, Sir, and I promise I won’t let you down. I will continue growing and getting better. As you said during my first evaluation, “Sa game di naman isang level lang lagi. Lagi need mag level up.” And I will do exactly that, Sir. I will always level up.”
Micah Morta is the kind of leader who thrives during struggles, tackles the grind head-on, and leads with an authenticity that earns trust, not just titles. She embodies what it means to grow with purpose. As she honors Sir Chris’ legacy, Morts is fanning the flames with pride and determination. In her, the XSM team has not just a manager, but a Brutally Creative fighter who’s in it for the long haul, ready to take on whatever comes next.
At XS Multimedia, we don’t just see potential—we unlock it. From web developer to Operations Manager, Morts is the perfect example of how we bring out the best in our people. Join our Brutally Creative team.
