Mike joined Publix in 1976 as a rail dock associate. He was promoted to shipping/receiving manager in 1988, senior purchasing analyst in 1991, manager of manufacturing supply purchasing in 1993, director of deli and bakery manufacturing in 2001 and director of fresh product manufacturing in 2004. In 2005, he was promoted to vice president of manufacturing, and to his current position in 2013.
Where were you born?
Lakeland, Fla.
What did you want to be when you were little?
I used to dream about being a marine scientist like Jacques Cousteau.
What are your hobbies?
Fishing and mountain biking
What’s your favorite sports team?
The Florida State Seminoles
What’s your favorite Publix product?
Publix Premium Greek Yogurt. Peach is my favorite flavor.
What’s the most challenging part of your job?
Delivering the highest level of service and quality at the most economical cost while ensuring we are prepared for growth and other changes within our company.
What hasn’t changed about Publix since you started here?
We strive for excellence in whatever we do, and we want to do it better than anyone else in our industry.
What’s your favorite Publix memory?
Meeting Joe Blanton when I worked on the rail dock. He was doing Associate Appreciation Visits and talked to us about the quality of our company and assured us if we kept doing great work, our company would always be successful.
What’s your work or life philosophy?
Live your values.
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What is your favorite movie?
Rudy
What is your favorite book?
Whatever I’m reading at the time; currently it’s Guns, Germs and Steel
What is playing on your iPod?
Jack Johnson
What’s the most exciting part of your job?
Watching people advance their careers and grow with Publix. I love seeing associates realize their goals and ambitions, and take advantage of all Publix has to offer.
What’s changed the most at Publix since you started here?
Two things stick out; the size and scale of our company, and the increased level at which we must operate regarding food and associate safety.
