Karen joined Publix in 1984 as a part-time deli clerk in Jacksonville Beach, Florida. She was promoted to deli manager in 1992 and to assistant store manager in 1998 before transferring to support as a deli buyer in 1999. Karen became the fresh department senior business lead of supply chain in 2003 and was promoted to director of Oasis support in 2010 before transferring into her current role in 2015.
Where were you born?
Jacksonville, Florida
What did you want to be when you were little?
A lawyer
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love learning. In my current role, I’m learning every day — from local customization and pricing to nutrition and our private label products.
What music are you listening to right now?
I listen to so many genres! Right now, I’m listening to The Smiths, Foo Fighters, The Cure and Ray LaMontagne.
What’s your work or life philosophy?
The best things in life aren’t things.
What are your favorite Publix memories?
I have several. Opening the first stores in Savannah, Georgia, and Charleston, South Carolina, was really cool. When I was a deli manager I was recognized at an appreciation dinner for my accomplishments. My mom was also invited and it was really special to enjoy that moment together. But, probably my most favorite Publix memory was implementing Oasis. That was a big job, and I was so proud to see it all the way through.
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What brought you to Publix?
I needed a job while earning my degree and Publix was flexible with my schedule.
What do you enjoy most about working at Publix?
I enjoy serving our customers. Whether it be our customers in our stores or our internal customers in support, I love providing them with premier service. I also love the opportunity I have to lead and invest in others. For associates who haven’t been with Publix long, it’s important to perpetuate the Publix culture and share with them all Publix has to offer.
What hasn’t changed about Publix since you started?
The integrity of our company and company pride
What has changed about Publix since you started?
Technology and the tools we have available to us like store inventory management, automated replenishment and Oasis
What are your favorite books?
King’s Cross, The Hole in our Gospel, The Prodigal God, Blue Like Jazz
What is your favorite sports team?
Florida State Seminoles, since I’m an FSU graduate
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Listening to music
What are your hobbies?
Walking on the beach, shopping, going to concerts, attending our church events, reading and spending time with my family and friends
What’s your favorite Publix product?
Publix Premium Hula Hula Macadamia Ice Cream
What’s your proudest moment?
The birth of my children; I love being their mom.
