James began his Publix career in 1989 in the Lakeland, Florida, dairy warehouse. He transferred to the Orlando, Florida, distribution center in 1994 and became superintendent in 2003. He became a manager of warehouse operations at the McCalla, Alabama, distribution center in 2016. In 2021, James was promoted to his current position.

What advice would you give to your younger self?
Be patient.

What is your favorite Publix memory?
Early in my career, Mr. George visited one of our facilities. His commitment to the philosophy of “being there” is something I will never forget.

What is your favorite room in your house?
The dining room. It’s a great place for my family to gather and make memories.

What is the most important part of your job?
Ensuring we provide a great work environment for our associates

Sweet or salty?
Salty

Favorite place to vacation?
The mountains or the beach

What’s your work philosophy?
Treat people right, be humble and work hard.

What do you want to learn next? 
Anything! You should never stop learning.

It’s a Saturday night. What type of movie do you go for?
Action or suspense

You’re at the movies. Do you get popcorn or candy?
Popcorn

What skills do you find most useful in your current role?
Being a good listener. Listening helps me learn what is going well, what needs improvement and what ideas are needed to improve.

Would you rather skydive or scuba dive?
Skydive

Dogs or cats?
Dogs

Cards or a board game?
Cards

What are you most thankful for at Publix?
I am thankful that our founder, Mr. George, gave us all an opportunity to be owners of this great company!

What’s your guilty-pleasure food?
Publix Strawberry Ice Cream

What sport or hobby do you want to learn one day?
Pickleball

Waffles or pancakes?
Waffles