Bob began his Publix career in 1978 as a front service clerk in Sarasota, Florida. He worked in various positions before being promoted to store manager in 1991. He was named Lakeland Division district manager in 1995. In 2008, he was promoted to regional director for the Lakeland Division, and in 2016, he was promoted to his current role.
Where were you born?
Chicago
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I enjoy visiting the stores, talking about our company culture, and letting associates and managers know how important they are to our success. We really could not do it without them.
What’s your work or life philosophy?
“Successful people do what unsuccessful people are not willing to do.” Through that saying, I challenge myself and my team to always try harder and to go from good to great in our personal and professional lives.
What’s your favorite Publix memory?
I still remember getting a phone call as a senior in high school from my store manager to tell me I made full time. More recently, it was watching seven of our Publix trucks leaving the Miami distribution center very early in the morning en route to Key West to provide desperately needed supplies after Hurricane Irma.
What music are you listening to right now?
Classic rock. My favorite band is Led Zeppelin.
What’s happening in your division that you would like to share with the Publix family?
We just opened our fifth store in the Florida Keys. This represents our commitment to grow store counts across the division and serve our communities. The Miami Division is also growing as a strong family, working together and building synergy in our efforts focused on One Publix, One Purpose.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Publix Bakery Cheesecake Almond Cones
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What did you want to be when you were younger?
I went to college to become a computer engineer. Two years into my education, I was promoted to grocery manager and decided this is what I wanted to do.
What are your favorite movies?
Any movies with action and suspense
What brought you to Publix?
My family moved down from Chicago, and Publix was the place to work. At 15, my grandmother told me that it was a great company and I needed to work there.
What hasn’t changed about Publix since you started?
Our philosophy and culture haven’t changed. We’re focused on providing premier customer service and taking care of our associates.
What are your favorite sports teams?
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Miami Dolphins
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy boating, diving and playing the guitar.
What’s your favorite Publix product?
Publix Premium Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Ice Cream
What’s your proudest moment?
I’m most proud of my family — my marriage of 35 years to my high school sweetheart and the three children we have raised to become young adults. They now have their own families and are also part of the Publix family.
What has changed about Publix since you started?
We’ve learned to adapt to the changing landscape of our customers and are better able to serve their diverse and evolving needs.
What is your favorite book?
“Everyone’s a Coach” by Ken Blanchard and Don Shula
