Publix honors managers with top awards

Lakeland, Fla.-based Publix Super Markets honored 12 managers during the company’s recent retail operations conference with its most prestigious recognitions –– the George W. Jenkins Award and the President’s Award.

According to the company, the George W. Jenkins Award –– named after its late founder –– was presented to one store manager from each of Publix’s five divisions and one support area associate who perpetuate Publix’s culture by exemplifying leadership and commitment to ensure that the company could carry on its founder's vision for generations to come. The 2018 recipients are:

• Store Manager Ester Santillie, McDonough, Georgia;
• Store Manager Steve Payret, Glen Allen, Virginia;
• Store Manager Eddie Guzmán, Deltona, Florida;
• Store Manager Joe Bustamante, Winter Haven, Florida;
• Store Manager Richard Reynolds, Plantation, Florida; and
• Director of Tax and Treasury Chris Mesa, Lakeland, Florida.

The President’s Award was presented to one district manager from each of the company’s five divisions and one support area manager who embody the philosophies and spirit of growth and fairness Publix was founded on. According to the company, these recipients have proven their dedication to maintaining the dignity, value and employment security of their associates. The 2018 recipients are:

• Atlanta Division District Manager Jasmin Ovcina,
• Charlotte Division District Manager Charles Gainer,
• Jacksonville Division District Manager Del Cragin,
• Lakeland Division District Manager Bryan Lanzilotta,
• Miami Division District Manager Jamie Laviolette, and
• Director of IT Security and Compliance Bernie Kelly.