Pete began his career at Publix in 1975 as a front service clerk.

He worked in various positions before becoming

• store manager in 1991
• district manager in 1995
• director of merchandising in 1998
• business development director of grocery in 2000 and
• vice president of product business development for grocery and non-foods in 2013.

At the beginning of this year, he was named to his current position.

What brought you to Publix?
My brother — literally. He was already working for Publix, and he came home on his lunch break to drive me back to the store to meet with his store manager. I was hired on the spot.

What hasn’t changed about Publix since you started?
Our customer service. We serve our customers better than anyone else.

What’s your favorite Publix memory?
Standing on stage at our retail operations conference with the 2007 George W. Jenkins Award held over my head

What’s your work philosophy?
Put into your work what you want to get out of it.

What music are you listening to right now?
A Pandora custom mix. I started with a few newer artists like Mumford & Sons. It’s cool how it suggested songs from a few older groups I like: The Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Pearl Jam and Nirvana.

What’s your guilty pleasure?
Playing Lumosity (brain games) on my phone

What’s your proudest moment?
Every achievement my kids have accomplished, whether it’s throwing someone out at home plate in a baseball game or buying their first house. I enjoy seeing them succeed.

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What do you enjoy most about working at Publix?
It’s the greatest company in the world!

What do you enjoy most about your job?
Being on the leading edge of everything that’s happening in the bakery and meat departments, and providing tools to better serve our customers

Where were you born?
Midland, Michigan

What did you want to be when you were little?
A football player or architect

What has changed about Publix since you started?
We’re about six times larger.

What is your favorite movie?
The Bourne series

What is your favorite sports team?
Florida Gators

What are your hobbies?
Martial arts and woodworking

What’s your favorite Publix product?
GreenWise Organic Golden Crackers