Her Story
About Narai
Narai Taboada serves as Operations Manager at Amazon, where she has built a successful career focused on operational excellence, leadership development, and team engagement. After serving as an Area Manager for approximately one to one and a half years, Narai was promoted to Operations Manager, a role she has held for nearly three and a half years. Throughout her five-year tenure with Amazon, she has led diverse teams, supported the growth of emerging leaders, and helped empower hourly associates to achieve their professional goals.
Before joining Amazon, Narai spent nearly six years with American Girl, where she advanced through a variety of roles, including Merchandise Handler, Full-Time Associate, Asset Protection Lead, and Salon Department Manager. Her transition into salon leadership was supported by her cosmetology license, which she earned shortly after high school. These experiences allowed her to develop a strong foundation in customer service, team leadership, operational processes, and employee support, shaping her ability to connect with individuals and lead with empathy.
Narai earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Child Psychology from Northeastern Illinois University, an educational background that has strengthened her understanding of human behavior and influenced her people-centered leadership style. She attributes her success to stepping outside her comfort zone, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, and remaining authentic and approachable as a leader. As a Hispanic woman thriving in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Narai is passionate about creating opportunities, encouraging others to recognize their potential, and ensuring team members feel valued, heard, and supported. Through her continued involvement in employee relations, leader development, and hiring initiatives, she remains committed to building inclusive and high-performing teams.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Narai
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my willingness to step outside of my comfort zone and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, development, and continuous learning. Throughout my career, I have approached new experiences with confidence and an open mindset, allowing me to expand my skills and discover my full potential. When I took on new challenges at Amazon, I embraced them with determination and a commitment to delivering my best, which has helped me grow both personally and professionally.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is, “If there is no room, make the room.” As a Hispanic woman working in a male-dominated industry, I have learned the importance of showing up with confidence and demonstrating my full potential. I believe in bringing the same level of skill, knowledge, wisdom, and experience to the table while creating opportunities for myself and others. By staying authentic, embracing challenges, and making a positive impact, I continue to break barriers and inspire those around me.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to never be afraid to show up, stand out, and recognize the value they bring to the table. There is so much talent, potential, and skill within each individual, and it is important to embrace challenges rather than shy away from them. Even when you find yourself as the only woman in the room, have confidence in your abilities, trust your experience, and remember that your perspective can make a meaningful impact. Embrace opportunities, continue learning, and never hesitate to advocate for yourself.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is recognizing the limited representation of female leaders within a traditionally male-dominated industry. While this can feel intimidating at times, I view it as an opportunity to challenge expectations, showcase my abilities, and bring my unique perspective to the conversation. By confidently stepping into spaces with experienced leaders and making my voice heard, I believe we can continue creating more opportunities for women to grow, lead, and succeed.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are authenticity, humility, and genuine connection with others. I believe in staying true to who I am, remaining down to earth, and creating an environment where people feel comfortable being themselves. As a leader, I prioritize listening to others, ensuring every individual feels valued, heard, and validated. Building trust and fostering a supportive environment where associates feel respected and empowered is essential to creating strong, successful teams.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.