Every year, the President’s Award is given to five district managers and a support leader who embody the founding philosophies of Publix. Recipients have proven their dedication to fairness, mentoring future leaders, and maintaining the dignity, value and employment security of their associates. The President’s Award is one of Publix’s top honors. Congratulations to our 2019 recipients!
Atlanta Division District Manager Aissata Deme
Originally from France, Aissata is an example of how hard work and tenacity can bring success. After becoming a Publix leader, she made it her goal to inspire others and be dedicated to the dignity, value and employment security of associates.
Aissata compares leadership to peanut butter and jelly, with the “P” representing your people and the “J” being excellence in your job.
“Your primary goal being a manager is to drive sales and profit, but you cannot execute on that if you do not have people,” said Aissata.
And she believes setting clear expectations is the key to helping associates be their best while also achieving business goals.
“As a leader, you need to make sure expectations are heard,” she said. “I think my division vice president summed it up best when he said, ‘Operational excellence begins with what the leader expects and ends with what they accept.’ I 100% agree with that.”
Charlotte Division Regional Director Joey Riddle (promoted Feb. 1, 2020)
When asked what winning this award meant to his career, Joey attributed this honor to all the amazing managers he has worked with over the years.
“Along the way, I have worked with phenomenal leaders who have coached me when I needed support, recognized when I did a job well and talked to me about advancement opportunities available at Publix,” said Joey.
He took those lessons and applied them to his management style. While he encourages everyone to take ownership of their work, Joey tailors his approach based on the individual and shares his praise for their good work.
For those who aspire to receive this great honor, Joey says, “It’s really about how much you give back to those associates you serve and fostering an environment of helping them reach their career potential so we can all make Publix a better place.”
Jacksonville Division District Manager Johnny Hankerson
Johnny wins the hearts and minds of his associates by focusing on their training and successes. Part of his leadership style is to take his associates’ personal needs and professional abilities into account in his decision-making process.
“Being a leader means investing in their associates, so they will, in turn, invest in their customers by providing premier customer service,” Johnny said.
Johnny creates a team environment to help get work done. Through his ability to relate to people, he has cultivated strong relationships and created a positive atmosphere throughout his district.
Lakeland Division District Manager Greg Chambless
In a job where daily challenges must be met head-on, Greg does so with patience and understanding. For his leadership qualities, he’s received the President’s Award not once, but twice.
“Publix has always supported my career goals by having someone there to mentor me,” said Greg. “Through that, I learned my role as district manager is to be there for associates and give them the tools and knowledge needed to be successful.”
Greg’s peers applaud the way he communicates with his team, clearly outlines expectations and follows up with feedback. He believes in investing in Publix’s most important asset, our associates, and celebrating small victories as a team.
Miami Division District Manager Charles Anderson
Ever since Charles started at Publix in 1984, his goal has been to inspire associates to be the best version of themselves. He makes a point to connect with each associate to ensure their development and growth, so they can strengthen the success of Publix.
“The Mr. George lesson that influenced me the most in my career was the importance of investing in others and being there for your team every step of the way,” said Charles.
Charles challenges his team to be solution minded and forward thinking. He even gave his team the nickname of the “wolfpack,” which further supports the Publix family mentality and our emphasis on working together as One Publix.
Senior Manager of Business Analysis and Reporting Frank Maggio
Throughout his 22 years with Publix, Frank has upheld Mr. George’s lessons and values, and he continues to push his team to the next level. He provides his associates with the training and knowledge needed to help them reach their highest potential, both professionally and personally.
“I’m here to help them. It is all about a team effort because we’re all here to work together. Customer service is first and foremost, and we need to help our fellow associates reach their potential,” said Frank.
Frank has always found ways to be proactive and is the first to volunteer to help with a project. Aside from his work performance, Frank helped create the Publix Diversity Achievement Award and assisted with setting up a mentoring program for minority BAR associates.
“Here at Publix, you are given the chance to make a difference,” he said. “Take that opportunity to find what it is you can contribute and try to make a difference.”
Meet the recent recipients of Publix’s top honors: the 2019 George W. Jenkins and President’s awards.
