Nov. 13, 2025 — Publix Super Markets celebrated the 2025 Lakeland Division George W. Jenkins Award recipient, District Manager Milan Kordic, at the company’s retail operations conference in central Florida.
Milan is described as an exceptional leader whose passion for people shines through everything he does — in his store and the community he serves. He inspires his team to fully engage in Publix’s mission and create a team-oriented environment.
“My goal when I go to work is to genuinely make things better around me,” said Milan. “If each of us focuses on giving just a little bit more every day, it will benefit our associates and our customers.”
Milan felt overwhelmed when he heard he was receiving this award. He credits his team for his success and looks forward to continuing to perpetuate the Publix culture by encouraging his team to do their best every day.
“George Jenkins laid the foundation when he started Publix 95 years ago,” said Milan. “It’s my honor to be able to continue his legacy of ownership, not only of our company, but of the culture we’ve created of being there for our people.”
About the honoree
Milan started his Publix career in 2001 as a front service clerk and then worked his way up through the produce department before becoming an assistant store manager. In 2017, he was promoted to store manager in Clearwater, Florida. He was selected for this award while serving as a store manager and was recently promoted to district manager.
About the George W. Jenkins Award
Named after Publix’s founder, the George W. Jenkins Award is one of the company’s most prestigious awards. It is presented to one store manager from each of the company’s five divisions and one support area manager who exemplify leadership, perpetuate the Publix culture and demonstrate their commitment to his ideals. As part of the award, each recipient is presented with a special green Publix jacket, marking them as members of this deserving group of honorees.
Milan joins Atlanta Division Store Manager Stephanie Bennett, Charlotte Division Store Manager Christy Pfuntner, Jacksonville Division Store Manager Ronnie Mills, Miami Division Store Manager Frank Roa and Director of Transportation and Maintenance James Sadler as this year’s George W. Jenkins Award recipients.