David began his career in 1990 as a front service clerk at #398, Tampa, Florida. He worked his way up to store manager and served as a district manager before being promoted to his current role in January of this year.
What’s your favorite place to vacation?
Great Smoky Mountains
What do you think makes Publix a great place to work?
The people and the culture of our company. When I was young and still undecided about my future, the people, relationships, camaraderie and culture made Publix such an appealing place to stay and pursue a career.
What’s one thing on your bucket list?
Go to the Grand Canyon and hike down to the bottom.
What’s something about you that people may be surprised to learn?
I’ve only been on an airplane twice in my life. And I’m deathly afraid of snakes.
What’s your favorite movie?
I’m a movie person; there are so many. “The Godfather” would be up there.
What’s your favorite sports team?
Tampa Bay Lightning
What’s your favorite Publix product?
Publix Bakery Carrot Torte Cake
What do you like to do in your free time?
Spend time with family, work out and enjoy Universal and Disney parks
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What’s your advice to someone just starting their Publix career?
Take the time to learn about all the opportunities available for you within the company and the growth potential Publix offers.
What’s your work philosophy?
Be passionate every day and invest in helping others.
What is your favorite Publix experience?
I enjoyed and learned a tremendous amount being part of one of the original GreenWise stores. It really helped me expand my knowledge of the operations in the store and become an expert on our products and processes. It was a wonderful opportunity to be a part of the new venture for Publix.
What emoji best describes you?
The crying laughing face
What are you binge-watching right now?
“The Queen’s Gambit”
What’s the farthest you’ve traveled?
Las Vegas
What’s your proudest moment?
Winning the George W. Jenkins award. It was amazing to get a call from Howard Jenkins [Mr. George’s son, board member and retired CEO] congratulating me.
What is the best career advice you received?
Take the time to invest in others. Communicate with people, take the time to share information, care about them and invest in their professional growth. This will pay off for them, and for Publix.
What toppings do you like on your pizza?
Pineapple, pepperoni and black olives
What’s your personal or professional motto?
Give the best of yourself and appreciate those around you who make your life so good.
What skills do you think have advanced your Publix career the most?
My communication skills, and that I truly enjoy helping and serving others. When you help others, you grow yourself.
What do you want to learn next?
Learn Spanish
What’s the best Halloween costume you’ve ever had?
Phantom of the Opera. My wife is a big fan, so we dressed up as it one year.
If you could spend a day in someone else’s shoes, whose would they be?
Mr. George when he was founding Publix. I’d like to experience the creativity, passion and ideas he brought forward to establish our great company.
What is your favorite lunch?
Publix Deli Turkey Cobb salad on a regular day; Maggiano’s in Tampa on a special day.
What is your go-to song to pump you up?
“Remember the Name,” by Fort Minor
If you could meet anyone in the past or present, who would it be?
Robin Williams. He was such an inspirational, talented individual and his contagious personality affected so many people in a positive way.
What did you want to be when you were younger?
Electrical engineer
What are you listening to right now?
Ted Talks. I love listening to them for personal and professional growth.
