Military Experience Shapes Leadership Journey at Amazon

An Amazon area manager, Humphrey transitioned from the Marine Corps to the corporate world in 2017, leveraging military skills to navigate challenges and lead teams effectively. His journey underscores how military experience can enhance leadership roles in civilian sectors, particularly at Amazon, where the company emphasizes supporting veterans and their unique skills.

Humphrey’s military background as a former drill instructor in the Marine Corps has profoundly influenced his leadership style at Amazon. He emphasizes “firmness, fairness, dignity, and compassion,” values that have been crucial in his career progression. Starting his Amazon journey as an associate responsible for counting inventory, he quickly advanced to become an ambassador for training new associates and ultimately an area manager overseeing numerous staff.

In the Marine Corps, Humphrey took on significant responsibilities early, becoming a section chief at just 19 years old. This role required him to manage a team of Marines while being accountable for their safety and equipment. The military instilled in him a sense of responsibility and the ability to remain calm under pressure, traits that he has brought to his role at Amazon.

Amazon’s Commitment to Veterans

Amazon has made substantial investments in supporting its workforce, committing over $1 billion to increase pay and reduce healthcare costs for fulfillment and transportation employees in the United States. The average total compensation at Amazon now exceeds $30 per hour, including selected benefits. This financial commitment aligns with the company’s pledge to hire 100,000 veterans and military spouses worldwide by 2024, a goal that was surpassed in January 2024.

Humphrey often reflects on how his military training has equipped him to handle crises effectively. He credits his calm demeanor during chaotic situations to the lessons learned while serving. “People often ask me, ‘How are you so calm when everything else is crazy?'” he shares, attributing this quality directly to his military experience. By modeling honesty and reassurance, he creates a supportive environment for his team.

Drawing from his artillery background, Humphrey employs a methodical approach to problem-solving at Amazon. He has developed strategies to tackle operational challenges, including a contingency plan for manually sorting packages during automated system outages. This forward-thinking mindset has allowed him to implement solutions that ensure operational continuity, even in critical situations.

Leadership and Team Development

Humphrey’s leadership philosophy mirrors the training he received in the military. He emphasizes the importance of preparing team members for future roles, encouraging them to understand not only their responsibilities but also those of their superiors. “I can’t see what’s on the other side of the building, so those leaders have to have that ability,” he explains, highlighting the necessity of empowering his team to make decisions.

His approach has cultivated a culture of trust and reliability within his team. He encourages members to take advantage of Amazon’s educational benefits and flexible work options, such as four-day workweeks, to foster career advancement. At the Texas fulfillment center where he works, many colleagues share similar military backgrounds, facilitating a shared understanding of leadership principles.

Humphrey’s contributions extend beyond his immediate team. As a leader in the employee network Warriors at Amazon, he assists fellow veterans in their transition to corporate life. New associates with military experience are often directed to him for guidance, where he provides support and reassurance about their new roles.

As Humphrey continues his career at Amazon, he remains dedicated to mentoring others and promoting the value of diverse experiences within the company. His journey exemplifies how the skills gained in military service can effectively translate into leadership roles in the corporate world. The emphasis on responsibility, foresight, and team development not only enhances Amazon’s operations but also highlights the valuable contributions veterans bring to the workforce.

With a commitment to fostering growth and creating a supportive environment, Humphrey’s story serves as an inspiring testament to the intersection of military and corporate cultures. Amazon’s ongoing initiatives to support veterans illustrate a broader recognition of the unique skills these individuals offer, ensuring that their experiences are valued and leveraged for future success.