By - September 1, 2022

Jeff Preston, Director of Real Estate Assets

Jeff started with Publix in 1993 as an expense analyst in Lakeland, Florida. He moved to mail services in 1994, to business analysis and reporting in 1998, and to a position as a real estate specialist in 2000. Jeff worked his way up to real estate manager and then real estate asset manager before being promoted to his current position in 2018.

If you could spend a day in someone else’s shoes, whose would they be?
I would like to step into the shoes of a front service clerk in the very first Publix store. It would be fascinating to see firsthand how this all began and to work side by side with Mr. George.

What do you think makes Publix a great place to work?
The culture and the people

What’s your work philosophy?
To mentor, train and prepare the next generation of leaders in the real estate department

What is your go-to song to pump you up?
I listen to a variety of music, but if I am working out, chances are it will be ‘80s music and probably metal bands.

What’s your personal or professional motto?
Patience, persistence and preparation

Where were you born?
Lakeland, Florida

What do you like to do in your free time?
Spend time with our new puppy

What toppings do you like on your pizza?
Pepperoni, ham, bacon, mushrooms and extra cheese

What’s your favorite movie?
I like everything from classics like “Arsenic and Old Lace” with Cary Grant to Marvel superhero movies to dramas like “Goodfellas.” However, if I must pick a movie that I will stop on every time when flipping channels, it will have to be the original “Star Wars” trilogy.

What’s your favorite place to vacation?
I really enjoy staycations, but my favorite places to visit are Savannah, Georgia; St. Augustine, Florida; and just recently, Ireland.

What are you binge-watching right now?
I don’t typically binge watch, however, during college football season, we will watch college games for hours and hours — ROLL TIDE!

What do you want to learn next?
I have always wanted to learn a new language and/or musical instrument.

What’s the best Halloween costume you’ve ever had?
Gargoyle