Publix Recognizes 12 Leaders With the Company’s Highest Honors

LAKELAND, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Publix is proud to recognize 12 outstanding associates with the George W. Jenkins and President’s awards.

Both awards were presented to one retail leader from Publix’s five divisions and one support leader at the company’s annual retail operations conference.

George W. Jenkins Award

Named after the company’s founder, the George W. Jenkins Award is the company’s most prestigious award. It is presented to managers who exemplify leadership, perpetuate the Publix culture and demonstrate their commitment to Jenkins’ vision.

“George Jenkins believed in helping associates prepare for opportunity and creating an environment for them to be successful,” said Publix CEO Kevin Murphy. “The honorees exemplify these ideals and deserve recognition for their continued dedication to sustaining Publix’s legacy.”

The 2025 recipients are

• Atlanta Division: Store Manager Stephanie Bennett, #1867, Atlanta
• Charlotte Division: Store Manager Christy Pfuntner, #1081, Mount Pleasant, S.C.
• Jacksonville Division: Store Manager Ronnie Mills, #1243, Ponte Vedra, Fla.
• Lakeland Division: District Manager Milan Kordic, previously store manager at #640, St. Petersburg, Fla.
• Miami Division: Store Manager Frank Roa, #658, Miami, and
• Support: Director of Transportation and Maintenance James Sadler.

President’s Award

The President’s Award honors managers who actively perpetuate a culture of inclusion, foster a sense of belonging, and champion the development and advancement of all associates. The recipients are also role models to others by demonstrating exemplary leadership.

“These associates are examples of what it means to be an engaged leader,” said Publix President John Goff. “They’re creating an environment of inclusion where associates feel valued and respected, while also helping prepare them for the opportunities ahead.”

The 2025 recipients are

• Atlanta Division: District Manager Jeff Jeup
• Charlotte Division: District Manager Mike Jelenc
• Jacksonville Division: District Manager Kelly Wilson
• Lakeland Division: District Manager Steve Micheli
• Miami Division: District Manager Charlie Uz and
• Support: Director of Manufacturing Operations Brandon Haley.

Publix, the largest employee-owned company in the U.S. with more than 260,000 associates, currently operates 1,428 stores in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia and Kentucky. For 28 consecutive years, the company has been recognized by Fortune as a great place to work. In addition, Publix’s dedication to superior quality and customer service is recognized among the top in the grocery business. For more information, visit the company’s newsroom at corporate.publix.com/newsroom.