Mr. George created an environment for Publix associates to be successful. He once said, “Publix is like a smorgasbord, with opportunity spread out for you. Prepare yourself. The opportunities are up for grabs.”

Many associates have learned this lesson by preparing themselves for opportunities and taking them when they arise. One of those is Miami Division Pharmacy Operations Manager Kathy Leonard, who started with Publix in 1991 as a cashier.

“When Publix opened in my hometown, I was in high school. Several of my friends and I thought it would be fun to work here, and we were right!” said Kathy. “Today — 24 years later — I have even more friends at Publix and feel blessed to say my work is still fun. I had no idea when I started I’d end up building a career here.”

After a few years working in the customer service department and a little encouragement from
her dad — who also worked for Publix — Kathy told her store manager of her interest in doing more for Publix. Shortly after their conversation, her store manager had an opening in the pharmacy and asked Kathy if she was interested. Kathy jumped at the chance to join the pharmacy team.

“Working in the pharmacy opened my eyes to a potential career path. I knew there would be plenty of opportunities at Publix for me,” said Kathy. “My pharmacist was a great mentor who encouraged me to apply to pharmacy school. Since then, I’ve seen so many others encourage their associates to do the same.”

During pharmacy school, Kathy was able to work at Publix as a pharmacy intern. And, after graduating and becoming a licensed pharmacist, she received several promotions on the way to pharmacy operations manager.

“I’ve worked with many great leaders who were very influential and helped me prepare for all the opportunities that came my way. But, I also had to do my part of working hard, learning as much as I could about the business and taking advantage of resources that would help me grow and be more successful,” Kathy said.

Now, as pharmacy operations manager, Kathy returns the favor. She often speaks to her team about their interests and career goals, so she can better prepare them for what the future may hold for them.

Given a few opportunities, Miami Division Pharmacy Operations Manager Kathy Leonard has soared to great heights.