David began his Publix career in 1995 as a front service clerk at #435, Gainesville, Florida. He worked in various positions within retail before being promoted to store manager in 2011 and district manager in the Jacksonville Division in 2015. David was promoted to his current role in 2023.

What’s your favorite Publix memory?

Being promoted to store manager. It is the best role at Publix. You get to help people get positioned to be promoted and watch them grow. You also never know when you will have the chance to impact someone’s life, which is very humbling.

What has kept you at Publix?

The culture. It is a great place to work, and the people here have really taken care of me. We have exceptional growth, but we also have stability, which is a unique blend at Publix. We are truly dedicated to the dignity, value and employment security of our associates.

What do you think are the best leadership qualities to have?

Integrity, accountability, adaptability and humility. Integrity gives credibility. Accountability is owning your actions and those of your team. As a leader, you also need to be adaptable and be able to receive feedback and pivot in the retail environment. You need to have humility because everyone’s voice matters.

What’s your favorite Publix product?

Brownie Moose Tracks ice cream

How many countries have you been to?

I have been to over 15 countries, including Jamaica, France, Germany, Mexico and Australia.

What’s your favorite dish you’ve had abroad?

Some of the best food comes from being in the moment. The best food moment I’ve had abroad is a baguette sandwich from a boulangerie in Paris. But what made this baguette special is the story behind it. We were in Paris on Valentine’s Day when we decided to stop at a boulangerie. They didn’t speak English, so a gentleman behind us offered to help us order. The employee behind the counter gave my wife a flower to celebrate Valentine’s Day. The whole experience really made us feel like we were a part of the city.

Coffee or tea?

Neither

What’s your favorite part of your current role?

In my role, I work with merchandisers, retail coordinators and retail improvement specialists. What I like about my current role is having the opportunity to provide store managers with a foundation to run the best store for their associates and community.

What’s a fun holiday memory that you have?

Visiting the Christmas markets in Munich and Salzburg with my wife. We went between Thanksgiving and Christmas when it was snowing and picturesque.