By Christy - May 1, 2018

Donna Toy — Business Development Director of Non-Foods Consumables

Donna began her Publix career in 1982 as a part-time cashier. In 1983, she transferred to grocery purchasing (now corporate purchasing) and worked her way up to buyer in 1994 and category manager in 1999. Donna was promoted to her current role in 2006.

Where were you born?
Lakeland, Florida

What did you want to be when you were little?
A reporter

What brought you to Publix?
I come from a Publix family. My grandparents, parents, brother, sister, cousin and my son work at or retired from Publix.

What hasn’t changed about Publix since you started?
The people. We’re like family. We care for each other and are passionate about doing the right thing.

What has changed about Publix since you started?
Technology. When I first started, we didn’t have computers.

What’s your work philosophy?
Come in every day and do your best. Act like you’re being interviewed for the job you want every day.

What’s your favorite Publix memory?
When Mr. George called all of us down to join him at his birthday party. I’ll never forget that. He wanted us to celebrate with him. And, winning the President’s Award in March was great too!

What’s your favorite Publix product?
Publix Premium Chocolate Chip Ice Cream


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What is your favorite movie?
Pride and Prejudice

What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love to see new stores open or when we try something new.

What do you enjoy most about working at Publix?
The passion of our people

What music are you listening to right now?
I like to listen to audio books. I’m currently listening to Resolution.

What are your hobbies?
Reading and spending time with my family

What is your favorite sports team?
Georgia Bulldogs and my husband’s favorite team, the University of Central Florida Knights