Nov. 13, 2025 — Publix Super Markets presented Jacksonville Division District Manager Kelly Wilson with the 2025 President’s Award at the company’s annual retail operations conference in central Florida.
Described as a proactive leader with a strategic mindset and a keen ability to implement leadership development, Kelly is focused on building future leaders for Publix. Her leadership style is inclusive, and she excels at personal engagement with her teams and customers.
“I believe that building relationships with your associates is key to making Publix a great place to work,” said Kelly. “My team is what makes me successful, so over the last 26 years I’ve made it my mission to build trust and encourage engagement with my teams.”
Kelly was full of gratitude when she learned that she was being recognized with this year’s Jacksonville Division President’s Award. She said she appreciated the recognition and that it was a great honor for her.
“It’s our associates who show up every day who make our company great,” said Kelly. “I look forward to continuing to build relationships with them and to help them reach their full potential.”
About the honoree
Kelly began working for Publix in 1994 as a cashier in Winter Garden, Florida. She held various positions in the customer service department before becoming an assistant store manager in 2004 and a store manager in 2016. Kelly was promoted to district manager in 2021. For her dedication to exemplifying leadership, perpetuating the Publix culture and demonstrating her commitment to our founder’s ideals, Kelly was a recipient of the 2019 George W. Jenkins Award.
About the President’s Award
The President’s Award is one of the company’s most prestigious awards. It honors one district manager from each of the company’s five divisions and one support leader who actively perpetuate a culture of inclusion, foster a sense of belonging, and champion the development and advancement of all associates. In addition, the recipients must be role models to others by demonstrating exemplary leadership.
Kelly joins Atlanta Division District Manager Jeff Jeup, Charlotte Division District Manager Mike Jelenc, Lakeland Division District Manager Steve Micheli, Miami Division District Manager Charlie Uz and Director of Manufacturing Operations Brandon Haley as this year’s President’s Award recipients.