Ben Gamez leads the Employee Recognition Program for the Health System.

When did you join the University?

I joined UC Davis Health System in January of 2012.

What's your day-to-day role in stewarding university resources?

I oversee the entirety of the Employee Recognition Program for the health system as well as Human Resources. The Employee Recognition Program is a fair and equitable recognition program that rewards individuals and groups for excellent performance in fulfilling the UC Davis Health System’s strategic guiding principles: Compassion, Diversity, Leadership, Social Responsibility and Teamwork/Collaboration. I implement new recognition programs and process monetary awards from the gift card program, STAR awards, and coordinate special recognition events. In addition, I oversee the recognition budget for the health system, conduct audits, and make recommendation strategies to departments.

What's an example of how you delight customers?

I am committed to advocating on behalf of staff to improve and create visibility for the Employee Recognition Program. Providing customer services is essential and to be able to be resource for departments is crucial. For example, working with departments on how to strategize on their recognition funding allocation is something that departments have always expressed their gratitude. 

What do you like best about working at UC Davis?

I like the diversity and the opportunities we have as staff to enhance our careers.

What’s the most challenging part of your job?

The most challenging part of my job is organizing the logistics for the special events for recognition. It is true that at the end of the day all comes together but the planning and stress is quite challenging at times. 

Tell us one thing about yourself that most people wouldn’t know. 

My first job was working in the agricultural fields harvesting the crops. That is why I am an advocate for the farm working community. 

What’s something you like to do when you’re not at work?

I play indoor and outdoor soccer and coach a soccer team as well. I enjoy spending time with my wife and three children. They are my motivation in life.