Greg joined Publix in 1990 as part of the corporate accounting team. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Central Florida. He later transitioned to marketing, where he worked as a research analyst. He then worked in various roles in purchasing, including logistics replenisher, buyer and category manager, before being promoted to his current role in 2009.

Where were you born?
Lakeland, Florida

What did you want to be when you were younger?
I wanted to be a high school teacher and football coach.

What do you think makes Publix a great place to work?
Our culture. Vice President of Marketing Mark Irby told me 25 years ago that our culture was the easiest thing for Publix to lose and the most difficult thing for our competition to get. To me, it all starts with how we treat each other.

What was your favorite Publix experience?
Meeting my wife, Business Development Director of Grocery Donna Toy

What’s something people may be surprised to learn about you?
I was a cast member in the 1986 Miss Florida Pageant. We performed on stage when the contestants were preparing for the next set.

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

What’s your proudest moment?
Watching my wife accept the President’s Award last year

What’s your favorite sports team?
University of Central Florida football, Go Knights!

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What’s your favorite movie?
“Chariots of Fire”

What do you like to do in your free time?
Spend time with my family and golf

What’s your advice to someone just starting their Publix career?
I like this Mr. George quote: “Publix is like a smorgasbord, with opportunity spread out for you. Prepare yourself. The opportunities are up for grabs.”

What’s your work philosophy?
Work hard, do your best and take care of the fundamentals — the blocking and tackling.

What is the best career advice you received?
Always do your best.

What are you reading right now?
“Start with Why” by Simon Sinek. We’re reading that together as a leadership team.

What’s your favorite Publix sub?
Publix Deli Buffalo Chicken Tender Sub

Favorite place to vacation?
Great Smoky Mountains

What toppings do you like on your pizza?
Extra cheese and pepperoni

What’s one thing on your bucket list?
Travel to Ireland

If you could spend a day in someone else’s shoes, whose would they be? Why?
A monster truck driver … because my co-worker James King would be so jealous.