John began his Publix career in 1991 as a front service clerk in Jacksonville, Florida. He worked in various retail positions before being promoted to store manager in 2005. He was promoted to Jacksonville Division district manager in 2010 and to his current position in May.
Where were you born?
Jacksonville, Florida
What did you want to be when you were little?
Quarterback for the Miami Dolphins
Why did you start working for Publix?
Like a lot of others, I wanted spending money.
What’s the most exciting part of your job?
The opportunity to inspire and motivate people to achieve success personally and professionally
What’s the most challenging part of your job?
Trying to get all 82 stores in my region to be like our Publix commercials
What’s your favorite Publix memory?
Meeting my wife at Publix when we were both part-timers. She told me “no” the first time I asked her out, and I didn’t get the courage to try again for another year and a half. But, then she said “yes,” and the rest is history!
What’s your favorite Publix product?
Publix Deli Chicken Tender sub
What’s your favorite sports team?
Florida Gators
What’s your work or life philosophy?
I believe in Arnold Glaslow’s quote, “Success isn’t a result of spontaneous combustion. You must set yourself on fire.” You have to be excited if you want to make things happen. No one will do it for you.
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What do you enjoy most about your job?
Having the ability to make a difference in the lives of managers and associates
How has Publix influenced you?
Publix has showed me that hard work, high standards, enthusiasm and investing in others will lead to success.
What’s your proudest Publix moment?
I don’t have one particular moment. I’m proud every time I see an associate progress in their career and knowing I played a small role in that.
What’s your favorite book?
The Heart of a Leader by Ken Blanchard
What’s your favorite movie?
Rudy
What do you do in your spare time?
Any spare time I have I spend with my family. My three kids are involved in sports, so we spend a lot of time at ball games.
What’s playing on your iPod right now?
Bruce Springsteen, George Jones and Tim McGraw
