Jim joined Publix in 1994 as an industrial engineer at the Lakeland bakery plant. He was promoted to project coordinator in the deli RBU in 1995, and held two management positions in strategy support before being promoted to director of fulfillment operations for Publix Direct in 2000. He was promoted to his current role in 2004.
Where were you born?
Bayshore, New York
What did you want to be when you were little?
An inventor. I still love to take things apart to see how they work.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I’m fortunate to have the opportunity to be involved in some of the most exciting initiatives our company is working on.
What has changed the most about Publix since you started?
Our company has grown a lot since I was hired in 1994. It’s incredible that we now operate across six states and have more than 1,100 stores, but yet we still remain focused on providing a great shopping experience for each and every customer.
What hasn’t changed about Publix since you started?
Our focus on providing premier customer service will never change.
What’s your favorite Publix memory?
When I was a new engineer, I helped launch the Quick Takes program in the deli. Mark Hollis (who was president at the time) personally stopped by my office and gave me a gold coin to recognize my efforts. His sincere appreciation made such an impact on me that I’ve always tried to do the same thing for people on my team.
What’s your favorite Publix product?
I love the Cuban subs from our deli. In fact, I love all the food from our deli!
What music are you listening to right now?
My taste in music is very eclectic. I have about 25 stations on my Pandora Radio app, and I shuffle between all genres.
What’s your favorite book?
A Land Remembered by Patrick Smith is a classic everyone should read.
What’s your work or life philosophy?
Surround yourself with bright, hard-working people, share the vision, and then let them do what you hired them for!
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What brought you to Publix?
After receiving my master’s in engineering, I saw a job posting for an industrial engineer at Publix. I researched Publix and decided it was my first choice. I was fortunate to be hired as an engineer in our Lakeland bakery plant.
What do you enjoy most about working at Publix?
I love working with people who are so determined to succeed.
What are you most proud of personally?
My children make me feel proud every day. I have three teenage children who are growing up to become kind, intelligent and responsible adults. My wife Marie and I couldn’t be more proud of them.
What are your favorite movies?
I prefer action/suspense movies. I love the Bourne series.
What is your favorite sports team?
I’m an avid baseball fan, and the New York Yankees are my team.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
I love a glass of good cabernet sauvignon. Our Publix Premium Limited Edition Cabernet is fantastic.
What are your hobbies?
I enjoy going fishing and boating with my family. I also like to play golf and tennis when I can find the time.
