Vlad started working for Publix in 2005 as a systems analyst/programmer. He advanced through the roles of senior systems analyst in 2010, I/T delivery manager in 2010 and senior manager of I/T in 2015. He was promoted to his current role early last year.
Where were you born?
Georgetown, Guyana, in South America
What are your favorite sports teams?
I grew up in New York City, so the Yankees and the Giants!
What brought you to Publix?
I had a great job in New York City, but my wife and I were getting tired of the snow. We decided to buy a house in Florida and maybe move here a few years later. Within a few months, we decided to move the next summer.
I’d never heard of Publix or Lakeland, but I moved to Lakeland because it was between Tampa and Orlando. I came here with no job. While I was looking for work, I saw recruitment ads online with Publix’s awards. As I became a regular Publix shopper, I realized why this place was a big deal, and I knew it was where I wanted to work. I started putting in applications, and after a few months I was offered a position.
Name something on your bucket list.
I know it would involve travel and experiencing different places and people — maybe seeing the Himalayas or Aurora Borealis.
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What’s your guilty pleasure?
Fatty foods — I try to be healthy and exercise, but there’s nothing like bacon or a good rib eye.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
The people — I love working with people and their different personalities, and I love watching them grow and excel in life.
What do you enjoy most about working at Publix?
This is the fourth company I’ve worked for in the past 27 years, and it’s very different here. It’s not quite as “corporate” as you find elsewhere. People here work for the greater good of the company rather than for themselves.
What did you want to be when you were little?
An astronaut
What’s your favorite Publix product?
Publix Chicken Tender Sub
What’s your work philosophy?
My mom told me, “Just work hard, and don’t worry about anything else. People will notice, and things will fall into place.” I like where that’s gotten me so far.
What’s your proudest moment?
When my three kids were born — I love watching them grow and the things they accomplish. From a work standpoint, I am proud of every new feature we deliver to our stores. It is amazing to see a vision become a live system that brings value to our associates and customers.
What music are you listening to right now?
I listen to a lot of West Indian music, but I’m also a big fan of Bruno Mars and Ed Sheeran — and anything from the ’80s.
What are your hobbies?
Staying fit
