By Vivian - October 1, 2017

Mike Lester – Director of Warehousing

Mike Lester

Where were you born?
Lakeland

What did you want to be when you were little?
A police officer like my father

What do you enjoy most about your job?
Serving Publix associates. They are second to none, and I enjoy doing what I can to help them succeed.

What’s your work philosophy?
Strive for excellence in all areas of your life, and do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

What’s your favorite Publix memory?
When Mr. George visited the Orlando distribution center in 1995 — his passion for Publix was still very evident in the way he interacted with every associate.

What do you enjoy most about working at Publix?
Working with fellow Publix owners who respect our values and appreciate how fortunate we are to be part of this company

What’s your favorite Publix product?
Publix Premium Cookies & Cream Ice Cream

What’s your proudest moment?
Marrying my high school sweetheart, Janie, and raising three successful children who are now giving us lots of beautiful grandchildren


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What are your favorite movies?
The Patriot and Gladiator

What music are you listening to right now?
Breaking Benjamin radio on Pandora

What brought you to Publix?
I had several friends who worked at the warehouse in Lakeland, and they seemed to love their jobs. I needed steady work to pay my way through college. At the time, I did not expect to make Publix a lifelong career!

What hasn’t changed about Publix since you started?
Mr. George’s philosophy to provide premier service and that we value our associates

What has changed about Publix since you started?
We have grown from operating 270 stores in Florida to more than 1,100 stores in seven states and counting! We have also added some amazing technology to improve efficiencies and levels of service.

What are your favorite books?
I don’t have any favorites, but recently read The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon. It’s about positive leadership. It was recommended by my friend Mark Huckaby, store manager at #1488.

What is your favorite sports team?
The Dallas Cowboys

What’s your guilty pleasure?
I’m addicted to sugar. Dessert is my favorite course of a meal.

What are your hobbies?
Working around the house and spending time with my four — soon to be five — grandchildren.