Our most prestigious honor, the George W. Jenkins Award, was named after our founder, Mr. George. It is presented to 1 retail leader from each of our 5 divisions and 1 support leader. Recipients of the George W. Jenkins Award exemplify leadership, perpetuate the Publix culture and demonstrate their commitment to our founder’s vision.
Below are our 2022 George W. Jenkins Award recipients:
Atlanta Division
Store Manager Phil Postle, #1786, McDonough, Georgia
Phil is driven to make sure his associates are well-trained in Publix standards, establishing strong onboarding and developmental processes. His efforts have led to promotions for associates throughout Publix. Phil is viewed as a leader in the Atlanta Division who is committed to the advancement and growth of the company.
Charlotte Division
Store Manager Mark Taggart, #1548, Boone, North Carolina
Mark is committed to building camaraderie in his store and has a passion for mentoring and developing future leaders at Publix. He is a leader in his community, and he shares that same passion with associates and customers, who continually share their praise for him.
Jacksonville Division
Store Manager Steve Myers, #1450, Port Orange, Florida
Steve is dedicated not only to his associates and customers but also to his community. He exhibits in everything he does what it means to lead with a servant’s heart. He served as an associate on loan to the United Way for 3 consecutive years. And he still supports the organization today!
Lakeland Division
Store Manager Jenniffer Kras, #640, St. Petersburg, Florida
Jenniffer leads by example and always strives to do the right thing. Her team members appreciate her work ethic and leadership style. She exemplifies Publix culture through her involvement and support of associates. Jenniffer’s enthusiasm is contagious and motivates her associates in their tasks. She instills in her teams and peers a sense of ownership to contribute to Publix’s success.
Miami Division
Store Manager Philip Wearsch, #757, Merritt Island, Florida
As a store manager for 14 years, Philip knows the importance of connecting with his associates. He spends time getting to know them and explaining why making a career at Publix is so rewarding. He has earned a reputation as someone who prepares his associates for promotion opportunities, embraces the company’s promote-from-within culture and encourages diversity.
Support
Business Development Director of Produce Curt Epperson
Curt is always willing to listen and learn from anyone with a different perspective or new ideas. He is passionate about ensuring Publix continues to be recognized as a leader in the industry. Curt made an impact in his community during the COVID-19 pandemic when many farmers lost business when schools and restaurants closed. He helped Publix launch an initiative to purchase produce and milk from farmers, and donate it to Feeding America member food banks throughout the Southeast.
More about award recipients
Learn more about this year’s honorees by visiting the Publix newsroom. You can also find previous recipients at the Associates Awards page on PASSport.
