Dwaine started his Publix career in 1979 in janitorial services. He held positions in accounting and mail services before becoming Publix’s first community relations coordinator. Dwaine was promoted to media and community relations manager for the Jacksonville Division in 1997 before advancing to his current role in 2020. As the director of community relations, he oversees the company’s community partnerships and charitable efforts.
What did you want to be when you were younger?
I wanted to be a doctor.
What’s your favorite Publix product?
I have too many! For special occasions, it’s the Publix Premium Standing Rib Roast. My go-to snack is GreenWise salsa and tortilla chips. And for dessert, you can’t beat Publix Premium Banana Split Ice Cream with added cashews and chocolate sauce!
What is the best career advice you received?
One is to do things with honesty and be the best you can be at what you’re doing. The second is to take opportunities when they come.
What’s something about you that people may be surprised to learn?
That I enjoy horseback riding
What’s your work philosophy?
My philosophy is to put all of myself into what I do and work as if I’m serving a higher power. I give my true self every day for the betterment of what I’m privileged to do for Publix.
What toppings do you like on your pizza?
Sausage, ground beef, chicken, pepperoni, bell peppers, onions, mushrooms and pineapple
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Where were you born?
Tampa, Florida
What do you like to do in your free time?
When I have down time, I like to just veg.
What do you think makes Publix a great place to work?
The culture is what makes Publix a great place to work. As a 17-year-old walking the halls of Publix offices, I was able to engage with Publix legends. They took the time to get to know me. They listened to concerns and acted on them. They made you feel cared about and included. That care and culture continues today and, to me, is what makes it such a special place.
What are you listening to right now?
I’m currently listening to “More Myself” by Alicia Keys.
What’s your proudest moment?
My proudest moment was being promoted to my current role in January 2020 as director of community relations, a definite pinch-myself moment.
What’s one thing on your bucket list?
I want to visit Niagara Falls or the Grand Canyon to see the beauty of nature.
What emoji best describes you?
The thinking emoji
What veggies do you put on your Pub sub?
I always add jalapeno peppers and pickles to my Publix Deli Philly Cheese sub.
If you could spend a day in someone else’s shoes, whose would they be? Why?Steve Jobs or Bill Gates because of their innovations in technology
You’re a new addition to the crayon box. What color would you be and why?
I would be all of the colors because I don’t want to be boxed in.
What are you binge-watching right now?
I just finished “Dead to Me” on Netflix.
What’s your favorite movie?
I’m a crime drama type of guy, so I would say “The Godfather.”
What is your favorite Publix memory?
My favorite memory is co-launching the first Sabor in Kissimmee, Florida, with many members of the Publix team, some of whom I work with to this very day. There was so much energy and excitement around it.
