LAKELAND, FL - On the cusp of the new year, Publix announced a transition within its leadership team. The retailer recently revealed Malinda Renfroe will take over the role of Vice President of Marketing as her predecessor Mark Irby announced his retirement after 48 years of service.
Renfroe started her career at Publix in 2005 as a Marketing Support Associate, according to a release. She then became a Field Marketing Coordinator in 2006, Category Marketing Manager in 2010, and Manager of Marketing Brand Management in 2016. In 2019, Renfroe was promoted to her current role of Director of Marketing Operations.
“Malinda is a strong leader with extensive experience across all marketing functions,” said Kevin Murphy, President. “Her ability to foster collaboration and team building, along with her passion for developing associates, will be instrumental as she takes this next step in her Publix career. We are excited to see the contributions she’ll continue to make in her new role.”
Irby has revealed he will retire as Vice President of Marketing at the end of February 2022, at which time Renfroe will officially assume the role.
Having joined Publix in 1973 at the sign shop in Lakeland, Florida, Irby has worked in various positions within the company. In 1983, he was transferred from the sign shop to the advertising department as Marketing and Research Manager, then in 1988 was promoted to Director of Marketing and Advertising. He earned his current role in 1989.
“Mark’s dedication to helping build, promote, protect, and bring to life the Publix brand has made us a better company,” commented Murphy. “He’s given meaning to our ‘Where Shopping Is A Pleasure’ slogan and shaped opportunities for customers to connect with us in authentic ways, creating memorable moments with ‘my Publix’ stories. He’s made our brand a part of the fabric of our communities, building loyal and raving fans in existing markets and introducing us in new areas. We are grateful for all his years of dedicated service.”
Congratulations and best of luck to both Mark Irby and Malinda Renfroe as they enter these new stages in their careers!
