Publix Patriots: Master Sergeant, Combat Engineer Supervisor to Senior Manager of Supply Chain Replenishment
Welcome back to our Publix Patriots blog series! Each month we highlight one of our veteran associates and the skills they gained during their time in the military that helped them find a career with Publix. We feel honored to have so many veterans working with us. Learn more about a U.S. Army Reserve veteran and his career path with Publix.
Meet David, Senior Manager of Supply Chain Replenishment.
David has worked with Publix for 34 years. He needed a job in high school and had many friends and family who worked at Publix. He thought it would be a great place to get a job and was thrilled to be hired as a part-time bagger in Lakeland, Florida. Today, David is a senior manager for supply chain replenishment! During his career with Publix, he was in the U.S. Army Reserve for 23 years. In 2013, he retired as a master sergeant, combat engineer supervisor.
“Publix has been extremely accommodating over the years. In a nine-year period, I left three separate times for one-year deployments. My job was protected, and I was always welcomed back,” David said. “Many of my fellow soldiers were envious of my employment at Publix.”
How David’s military background helped him at Publix.
David learned many skills in the military that continue to help him in his career with Publix — teamwork, agility, work ethic and resourcefulness are just a few that he uses every day.
“The U.S. military is the most diverse organization in the world. Working under austere conditions and being surrounded by that kind of diversity teaches you how to adapt and overcome in any situation,” David said. “Whether it’s routine training or combat, past military experiences help you keep perspective when the work here gets challenging.
If you’re a veteran looking for a career with Publix, David has advice for you.
“When applying for a job with Publix, highlight the skills you bring from your military experience and explain how they will benefit the company. Not all your experience will translate directly, but most of it will make you a more desirable candidate.”
There are many career opportunities at Publix for veterans. Be sure to check our current openings in corporate, distribution and manufacturing or apply for a retail position. Follow our Publix Patriots LinkedIn for more veteran stories and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn!
Related articles.
Job Spotlight: Publix Real Estate Specialist
Publix Patriots: From E4-Specialist to Industrial Safety Specialist
Women in Leadership: Manufacturing Managers
