In a recent announcement, Publix Super Markets CEO Kevin Murphy has confirmed the retirement of two key officers and the promotion of two new executives, effective January 1, 2025. These changes highlight the company’s commitment to leadership development while recognizing the substantial contributions of long-term employees.
Randy Barber, the Vice President of Industrial Maintenance and Industrial Operations Purchasing, is set to retire after 46 years of dedicated service at Publix. Starting his career in 1978 as a front service clerk in Lakeland, Florida, Barber is an embodiment of the company’s values and culture. Over the years, he has taken on various roles, ultimately being promoted to his current position in 2018. Barber has been instrumental in streamlining operations, ensuring that both retail and industrial sectors of the company have all necessary equipment and supplies for optimal performance. His tenure reflects not just a career, but a deep commitment to the company. Upon retirement, Randy and his wife, Sharon, plan to remain in Lakeland and focus on family and hobbies such as hiking, fishing, and auto racing. “Randy’s dedication has made us a better company,” said Murphy, acknowledging Barber’s impact over the decades.
Following Barber’s retirement, John Fisher will step up from his current role as Director of Industrial Maintenance and Industrial Operations Purchasing to become the new Vice President. Fisher, who joined Publix in 2006, has consistently demonstrated leadership capability. His journey began as a senior facilities engineer and, through successive promotions, he has established himself as a reliable asset to the organization. Fisher and his wife, Jennifer, will continue to reside in Lithia, Florida.
Additionally, Bob McGarrity, the Vice President of Facilities, will retire at the end of 2024 after more than ten years at Publix. McGarrity originally joined the company as the director of construction in 2012 and advanced to his current role in 2017. Murphy credited McGarrity with enhancing the shopping experience through his commitment to store design and maintenance, as well as fostering a collaborative company culture. Like Barber, McGarrity plans to remain local with his wife, Lisa, as they look forward to traveling and spending more time with family.
Taking over McGarrity’s responsibilities will be Dave Taulbee, the current Architect Program Manager, who has spent over two decades at Publix. Taulbee, who started as a store design architect in 2001 and became Architect Manager in 2005, will bring his extensive knowledge of store design strategies to his new role as VP of Facilities. He and his wife, Nicole, will continue living in Wesley Chapel, Florida.
Murphy expressed confidence in the leadership transition, stating, “Preparing talented leaders for the next step in their Publix careers is important to our future success.” The focus on building future leaders underscores Publix’s strategy of nurturing internal talent.
With more than 255,000 employees and over 1,300 supermarkets across the Southeastern United States, Publix is a significant player in the grocery industry. Ranked No. 12 on Progressive Grocer’s PG 100 list of top food retailers in North America, Publix has also earned the distinction of being named one of the Retailers of the Century.
The rhythm of corporate evolution at Publix serves as a testament to the company’s proactive approach towards leadership and succession planning. As the organization looks to the future, the decisions made today will shape its path forward, ensuring that Publix not only maintains but continues to enhance its reputation throughout the grocery retail sector.