Our President’s Award winners embody the spirit of growth and fairness our company was founded on. It is through the successful efforts of these leaders that we continue our legacy of service to our increasingly diverse workforce and markets.
Each recipient receives a personalized trophy. Retail winners, their store managers, regional directors, division vice presidents and respective guests, as well as the support winner’s core management team and guests, are treated to dinner with President Todd Jones, Senior Vice President John Hrabusa and their spouses.
Atlanta Division – District Manager Wes York (two-time winner)
Jacksonville Division – District Manager Adrian Bennett
Lakeland Division – District Manager Patrick Helm
Miami Division – District Manager Mickey Dubberly
Support – Director of Manufacturing Purchasing Floyd Freeman
ATLANTA DIVISION
District Manager Wes York
Wes began his Publix career in 1976 as a part-time front-service clerk in Delray Beach, Fla. He worked his way through various positions before being promoted to store manager in 1988. A district manager since 1997, Wes currently oversees 11 Georgia stores located in Kathleen, Locust Grove, Morrow, Macon, McDonough, Perry, Stockbridge and Warner Robbins.
Wes is a two-time winner of the President’s Award, having received the recognition in 1999. He patiently listens to associates to understand their goals and goes the extra mile to help them achieve success.
“Wes has excellent communication skills, which allow him to effectively coach associates,” said Atlanta Division Vice President Joe DiBenedetto. “When it comes to implementing change, he always delivers a consistent message. He leverages his experience to deliver the best outcomes for Publix.”
Online Exclusive
Atlanta Division
District Manager Wes York
What brought you to Publix?
I started in high school. I had a friend who worked for Publix; he told me they had an opening, and I needed a job.
Why did you go into management?
The managers I worked with made it look like a great career choice. Once I decided I was going to make Publix my career, becoming a manager could not happen quickly enough for me.
What do you enjoy most about your current job?
The opportunities to help others reach their goals, as well as have a positive influence on the leadership in our stores
How has Publix influenced you?
I feel my standards, work ethic and passion for doing the right thing are all influenced by the challenges and expectations Publix has asked of me.
What has changed most about Publix since you started here?
I’ve seen so much change over the years — from the different variety of products, to the design and size of our stores, to improvements in the way we train our associates. But, the biggest change has to be the technology.
Some things that have not changed, and I know never will, are the focus on our customers, the belief our associates are our greatest asset and the fact the grocery business is hard work.
What is your favorite Publix memory?
After Hurricane Andrew hit in 1992, I was helping out at a store in Kendall, Fla. A Publix truck full of ice pulled up in the front parking lot, and we gave it to people in the neighborhood. What made it even more special was when one of our customers told us our main competitor was selling ice out of a tractor trailer for twice its normal price. I was never so proud to work for and represent a company as I was that day. That’s how stark a difference the philosophy is between the way Publix goes to business verses our competitors.
Did you ever meet Mr. George? If so, what was that experience like?
I met him several times early in my career; he and Mr. Joe would visit our stores each year. My most meaningful encounter was at my first assistant store managers’ meeting. I was newly promoted, sitting with the other managers who were first year promotions. He sat next to me and spent about 20 minutes talking with me about my family and my career plans. You would think that would be intimidating, but he had a way of making you feel like you were the most important person in the room.
What philosophies or ideas from Mr. George do you incorporate in your managing style?
Mr. George knew how important it was to make associates feel important and valued, and I hope my actions mirror that same ideal.
What was your reaction when you found out you received the President’s Award?
Completely surprised
What does the President’s Award mean to you?
Winning the award is very humbling. It means that I did a good job managing diversity, helping my managers grow in their leadership development and I did okay managing my district.
What are your hobbies/how do you spend your spare time?
I enjoy hiking and backpacking, golfing and spending time with my family.
What’s your favorite Publix product?
Our bakery carrot cake
back to top
JACKSONVILLE DIVISION
District Manager Adrian Bennett
Adrian began his Publix career in 1991 as a part-time grocery clerk in Savannah, Ga. He worked his way through various positions before being promoted to store manager in 2000. A district manager since 2006, Adrian currently oversees three Georgia stores in Savannah and Pooler, as well as six South Carolina stores in Beaufort, Bluffton, Hardeeville and Hilton Head Island.
With Adrian, the little things are important. He has grown personally and professionally throughout his Publix career, and because of him, Publix is a little bit better place to work.
“Adrian sets the tone for his stores by always acknowledging customers and associates and taking time to be approachable to everyone,” said Jacksonville Division Vice President Scott Brubaker. “He sees people for who they are, goes above and beyond to get to know them and successfully coaches them to meet their goals.”
Online Exclusive
Jacksonville Division
District Manager Adrian Bennett
What brought you to Publix?
I was working for a competitor and wanted a change. I was hired at Publix’s first store outside of Florida [#412, Savannah, Ga.].
Why did you go into management?
I was encouraged by my second assistant manager Kevin Murphy [currently Atlanta Division Regional Director].
What do you enjoy most about your current job?
I enjoy teaching others and watching them develop and grow as a Publix associate.
How has Publix influenced you?
To give back to others by investing in them and teaching them about the Publix culture
What has changed most about Publix since you started here?
How we have grown in size and kept up with technology
What is your favorite Publix memory?
When I was promoted to store manager
What philosophies or ideas from Mr. George do you incorporate in your managing style?
I like to keep in mind that, because of me, Publix will be a better place to work. I understand it’s up to me to make a difference by my attitude, conduct and speech.
What was your reaction when you found out you received the President’s Award?
Total surprise!
What does the President’s Award mean to you?
It means a lot to me because of what it stands for. Although it’s an individual award, the team effort made it possible. It means a lot to be recognized for sharing and making a difference in working with this great company and following our strategy.
What are your hobbies/how do you spend your spare time?
I share in the ministry with my local Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, play golf and spend time with my family.
What’s your favorite Publix product?
Anything in the bakery
back to top
LAKELAND DIVISION
District Manager Patrick Helm
Patrick began his Publix career in 1986 as a part-time front-service clerk in St. Petersburg, Fla. After serving in the military, he returned to Publix and worked his way through various positions before being promoted to store manager in 2005. A district manager since 2010, Patrick currently oversees 11 Florida stores located in Hudson, New Port Richey, Port Richey and Spring Hill.
Patrick embodies everything for which the President’s Award stands. He lives our mission by treating all associates with dignity and respect, and makes training personal for each associate.
“Patrick is a shining example of our culture of caring and working with a service mentality,” said Lakeland Division Vice President Tom McLaughlin. “He is a great role model and leader, and his continuous smile is a sign of his positive outlook on work, life, people and his community.”
Online Exclusive
Lakeland Division
District Manager Patrick Helm
What brought you to Publix?
Like most teens, I needed to pay for my car insurance! I applied at Burger King, and they wouldn’t hire me. My mom suggested I apply at Publix, but they weren’t hiring. So my mom did the next best thing; she named-dropped! She had known a Publix leader [Jim Mullins] who used to work at the store, and when the manager on duty heard that, I was hired at the front door.
Why did you go into management?
My wife and I owned a small business at the time — I worked full-time at Publix and another 30 on my own! My district manager Ray Pursifull kept talking to me about management opportunities, and I resisted for about 8 months. Finally, my wife convinced me I had something to offer Publix, and the rest is history.
What do you enjoy most about your current job?
Motivating people to be the very best in their life journey. Associates, customers, vendors, family members — it doesn’t matter, because everyone needs some positivity injected into them. What better way to do this than as a Publix leader.
How has Publix influenced you?
Publix has taught me a great deal of life skills and how to be business-savvy. No day is the same, and I feel blessed to have learned from my previous managers. On the business aspect, our company is viewed as one of excellence. Our company is respected not only in America, but in the world — and that’s pretty powerful.
What has changed most about Publix since you started here?
Technology for sure, along with the vast number of items we now offer in our stores. When I stocked the frozen foods and dairy aisles 25 years ago, they didn’t have that much product. I need a GPS to find all of the variety we have!
What is your favorite Publix memory?
My store manager, the late Tom Boehm, mentioned to my then district manager Gerald Brower I had enlisted in the Army and was leaving at the end of summer. One day while I was working my aisle, Mr. Brower walked up to me and said, “Young man, Mr. Boehm tells me you’ve enlisted in the military, and I think you’re making a big mistake. Publix has a bright future for someone like you. But if you’re still intending to go, see Mr. Boehm; he has some documents you need to sign.” My store manager reviewed our military leave forms with me, which enabled me to keep my job at Publix while I served three years in the Army. I never forgot that moment and thanked Mr. Brower when I saw him years later.
What philosophies or ideas from Mr. George do you incorporate in your managing style?
Mr. George and my grandfather had very similar philosophies, and ironically, they both owned grocery stores. Both would say, “Treat people right, serve others, and never jeopardize your integrity.” I also love Mr. George’s quote, “Begin, the rest is easy” — it’s always a great motivator for me.
What was your reaction when you found out you received the President’s Award?
Shocked and thankful to God for the opportunity to be a part of the Publix family. I never come to work to win awards, be recognized or to get a certificate. In fact, I felt my service to others is why I was placed on earth, and I’m fortunate enough to do much of my service as a Publix associate.
What does the President’s Award mean to you?
It feels like I’ve done my part to make Publix a little better place to work. Our efforts to become the model company of diversity, leadership, job security and advocates of change have come to fruition. My store managers and I have done our part to make Publix even more successful for the future.
What are your hobbies/how do you spend your spare time?
I am a licensed minister, so I keep busy outside of work in several arenas. I am a mentor, motivational speaker, a trustee at church and the church music director. I also love spending time with my wife of 20 years, Casandra, and we enjoy cruising, zoos and nature. I also am a huge railroad fanatic (real and model trains).
What’s your favorite Publix product?
Hands down, our bakery carrot cake!
back to top
MIAMI DIVISION
District Manager Mickey Dubberly
Mickey began his Publix career in 1969 as a part-time front-service clerk in Hollywood, Fla. He worked his way through various positions before being promoted to store manager in 1982. A district manager since 2004, Mickey currently oversees 10 Florida stores located in Cooper City, Dania, Davie, Fort Lauderdale and Weston.
Mickey’s welcoming demeanor makes associates feel comfortable and open to new ideas. He is quiet by nature and lets his accomplishments speak for themselves.
“Mickey is a hero to his stores because of his relationships with people,” said Miami Division Vice President Bill Fauerbach. “His team is inspired by his commitment to serving customers and perpetuating our culture — two assets he uses to develop the next generation of Publix leaders.”
Online Exclusive
Miami Division
District Manager Mickey Dubberly
What brought you to Publix?
I heard it was a good place to work. I was going to school and needed a job to help pay for college.
Why did you go into management?
To build a better future for my family and play a larger part in the growth of the company
What do you enjoy most about your current job?
Coaching, mentoring and promoting associates
How has Publix influenced you?
To always strive for improvement, because the opportunities are there if you go after them
What has changed most about Publix since you started here?
Technology
What is your favorite Publix memory?
I have two: meeting my wife when we both worked part time at #75 [Hollywood, Fla.], and being promoted into management.
Did you ever meet Mr. George? If so, what was that experience like?
Yes. He approached me while I was bagging groceries, thanked me and told me how important my job was to Publix.
What philosophies or ideas from Mr. George do you incorporate in your managing style?
Always do the right thing, listen to your people and empower them to do the job.
What does the President’s Award mean to you?
I work with the greatest people in the world, and it is an honor to be recognized by Publix and my peers.
What are your hobbies/how do you spend your spare time?
Reading, golfing and spending time with my family
What’s your favorite Publix product?
Our deli subs
back to top
SUPPORT
Director of Manufacturing Purchasing Floyd Freeman
Floyd began his Publix career in 1975 as a part-time sanitation clerk at the Lakeland frozen foods distribution center. He worked his way through various support business areas before being promoted to his current position in 2004, where he oversees the purchase of retail supplies, manufacturing commodities, industrial equipment purchases and services, and the purchasing methodology used to select Publix brand suppliers.
Floyd expects his team to exceed customers’ expectations — just like our retail associates. Serving associates is equally important, and it’s no surprise he is a shining example of our culture of caring.
“Floyd believes success comes from developing associates who are passionate about Publix,” said Senior Vice President Mike Smith. “He believes our people come first, and he goes above and beyond to make sure associates and suppliers always receive premier service.”
Online Exclusive
Support
Director of Manufacturing Purchasing Floyd Freeman
What brought you to Publix?
My family moved to Lakeland when I was in high school, and everyone told me Publix was the best place to work. My Publix career started on the rail dock as a part-time associate just out of high school, and I’m still here 39 years later!
Why did you go into management?
It was a natural progression. There were many Publix leaders who helped and supported me along the way. I have always looked forward to the opportunity to carry on that tradition.
What do you enjoy most about your current job?
The opportunity to work with and develop new Publix associates. It is very rewarding to see them grow, mature and become successful.
How has Publix influenced you?
Publix has had a very positive influence on both my personal life and professional career. In all my interactions, I am not only representing myself, but Publix as well. We have very high standards to maintain.
What has changed most about Publix since you started here?
When I started working at Publix, we only had about 200 stores. Publix has grown into one of the largest companies in the industry but still maintains the atmosphere and values of a smaller company.
What is your favorite Publix memory?
Winning the President’s Award!
Did you ever meet Mr. George? If so, what was that experience like?
I had a few opportunities. What always impressed me was his sincere concern and interest in all of his associates.
What philosophies or ideas from Mr. George do you incorporate in your managing style?
Invest in others, and do the right thing for our customers, associates and the community in which we live.
What was your reaction when you found out you received the President’s Award?
I did not know that I had won the award until my name was called at the Leadership Meeting. I was completely surprised and deeply honored.
What does the President’s Award mean to you?
It is a tremendous recognition, but it is also a reflection of the accomplishments of our entire team, past and present.
What are your hobbies/how do you spend your spare time?
I enjoy working out, most outdoor activities and spending time with my family.
What’s your favorite Publix product?
Our Publix Premium Limited Edition Caramel Coast Getaway ice cream — but our soon to be released Limited Edition Caramel Turtle Cheesecake ice cream is awesome too!
back to top
More 2013 Company Awards
George W. Jenkins award winners follow in our founder’s footsteps
