They say many business decisions are made on the golf course. For Senior Process Improvement Engineering Consultant Eric Witmer, one such decision turned into a lasting career.

“While I was an industrial engineering student at the University of South Florida, I was invited to play golf with a few people who worked in strategy support at Publix. We hit it off, and I later applied for an internship here,” said Eric. “Soon after I started, I knew Publix was a perfect fit for me.”

Now, 11 years later, Eric holds a senior position in the same department, helping retail business units make informed decisions that improve Publix.

“We’re in a unique position to see how every aspect of our stores operate,” said Eric. “We’re able to understand our stores’ labor needs, and also improve processes to make things easier for our associates and equip them to provide better customer service.”

For example, Eric played an integral part in the rollout of Oasis. From measuring the number of cases that are loaded on floats during stocking to researching when stores have peak hours and how many associates it takes to meet those needs, every detail counts. And it all boils down to helping stores have the labor and processes they need so associates can execute their strategic tasks.

“When I see customers and associates benefitting from the projects my team works on, I feel like we’re making a difference,” said Eric. “It’s great to be a part of that.”

When it comes to doing his part, Eric is a role model associate. For him, it’s less about recognition and more about Mr. George’s adage — do the right thing.

“If I’m doing the right thing for our stores and making sure they have everything they need to do their jobs, I know I’m doing my part.”

And for that, Eric is recognized as our featured office associate for the My Publix, My Part program.