Since joining NRI in 2019, Simon Gamboa has built his career through hard work, continuous learning, and a commitment to supporting the people around him. Starting as a Returns Clerk, Simon has grown into his current role as Distribution Center Manager (DCM), gaining experience across multiple areas of the operation while developing a leadership style centered on service, accountability, and teamwork. We sat down with Simon to learn more about his journey, what motivates him, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

Q: How did your journey at NRI begin?

A: I joined NRI in 2019 while I was pursuing a degree in Computer Science and looking for part-time work. What started as a temporary opportunity quickly turned into a career. I began as a Returns Clerk before moving into Shipping, and that decision opened the door to so many new opportunities.

With the guidance of great mentors and leaders, I continued taking on new responsibilities, progressing from Lead to Assistant Supervisor, Assistant DCM, and eventually DCM. Looking back, every role taught me something valuable and helped shape the leader I am today.

“Stepping into Shipping marked the beginning of a transformative journey in my career.”

Q: How would you describe your leadership style?

A: For me, leadership isn’t about managing from a distance. It’s about staying connected to the team, understanding the work firsthand, and removing obstacles before they become bigger challenges. I believe leaders earn trust by being present, communicating clearly, and supporting their teams every day.

“I lead from the floor and never above the work. I focus on removing obstacles, supporting my team, and ensuring they have what they need to succeed.”

That hands-on approach is the foundation of how I lead and helps create an environment where people can do their best work.

Q: From your perspective, what are the most important priorities to keep this building running at a high level?

A: I believe successful operations come down to three things: communication, accountability, and strong floor presence. By staying engaged with the team throughout the day, I can identify issues early, provide support, and maintain the level of service our clients expect from NRI. Rather than waiting for problems to surface, I focus on creating consistency through preparation, collaboration, and teamwork. For me, operational excellence comes from being present, staying proactive, and making sure the team has the support they need every day.

Q: How do you approach peak season?

A: Peak season definitely brings added pressure, but I see it as an opportunity to lead by example. I don’t believe in waiting for challenges to arise. I stay proactive and work alongside the team wherever support is needed, whether that’s picking, packing, problem-solving, or helping our leadership team on the floor.

“We don’t wait for challenges to arise. We stay proactive and engaged at all steps.”

When leaders stay involved, teams stay confident, and that makes a big difference during our busiest times.

Q: What have you learned by working across multiple departments?

A: Working in multiple departments has given me a much broader understanding of how every part of the operation connects. Seeing the workflow from start to finish has helped me identify opportunities for improvement while strengthening collaboration across teams. That perspective continues to shape how I make decisions and how I support both the operation and the people around me.

Q: What are you most proud of?

A: While I’m proud of how my own career has progressed, what means the most to me is helping others succeed.

Throughout my time at NRI, I’ve had the opportunity to mentor team members, watch them grow into leadership roles, and support them as they build their own careers.

“Mentorship has been the most rewarding part of my journey. Watching team members develop and supporting them as they reach their full potential is something I’m incredibly proud of.”

Watching others grow and knowing I’ve been able to play a small part in their success is what makes this role so rewarding.

From Returns Clerk to DCM, Simon’s career reflects what’s possible through curiosity, hard work, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities. His journey is a great example of the career paths that can be built at NRI and the impact strong leadership can have on both people and operations.