LAKELAND, FL - Not too long ago, Publix recently broke the news that its Senior Vice President of Real Estate and Facilities, Jeff Chamberlain, had made plans to retire at the end of the year. Now, another veteran has decided he will retire as well. Joe DiBenedetto, Publix Super Markets’ Atlanta Division Vice President, has announced his decision to retire at the end of the year.
“Joe has been instrumental in the continued growth and success of our Atlanta Division,” said President Kevin Murphy. “Throughout his career, Joe has worked to develop leaders for future opportunities. We wish him well as he begins the next chapter of his life.”
According to the press release, DiBenedetto’s more than 44-year-long career began in 1975 as a front service clerk in Cape Coral, Florida. After working in different capacities at several stores in Southwest Florida and Orlando, he was promoted to Store Manager in 1986 and District Manager in 1992. He was also Publix’s first District Manager in South Carolina. DiBenedetto was promoted to Regional Director in the Atlanta Division in 1995 and to his current position as Atlanta Division VP in 2011. The press release further goes on to state DiBenedetto and his wife, Cindy, will remain in the Atlanta area and are looking forward to spending more time with family, friends, and on their hobbies.
DiBenedetto’s successor has already been chosen. Kris Jonczyk will be promoted to take DiBenedetto’s place effective January 1, 2020. Jonczyk began his Publix career in 1986 as a front service clerk in Tequesta, Florida. Following along similarly to DiBenedetto’s footsteps, he became a Store Manager in 2000 and District Manager in 2012. He was promoted to Regional Director in the Atlanta Division in 2016. Jonczyk, and his wife, Cammie, will relocate to Atlanta.
“Kris is a strong operational leader who is committed to training and developing associates,” stated Murphy. “We are excited that he is ready to take the next step in his career.”
With all the recent changes lately in the executive structure, how will Publix perform in the upcoming year? Keep reading ANUK as we cover the latest in retail news.
