Publix names senior VP of retail ops, plus two new VPs

Publix Super Markets continues to make news on the executive front.

Last week the company announced the retirement of longtime CEO Ed Crenshaw (effective April 30, 2016), and the promotion of company president Todd Jones, 53, to president and CEO effective May 1, 2016.



With Jones’ promotion, CFO David Phillips, will assume additional responsibilities and be promoted to executive VP and CFO.



Kevin Murphy, Miami division VP, will be promoted to a newly created position, senior VP of retail operations, reporting to Jones.



With Murphy’s promotion, Bob Bechtel will be promoted to Miami Division VP.



Publix also said that Sam Pero will be promoted to Lakeland Division VP, succeeding Tom McLaughlin who is retiring April 30, 2016.



“We are excited to announce the promotion of four company leaders,” said CEO Ed Crenshaw. “David, Kevin, Sam and Bob are dynamic leaders focused on leading successful and diverse teams. They are passionate about Publix and our associates. Their promotions will allow us to continue to perpetuate our Publix culture of developing associates and enhancing our customers’ shopping experience.”



The promotions of Phillips, Murphy, Bechtel and Pero are effective May 1, 2016.



Publix has 1,113 stores in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina and North Carolina.