Dec. 5, 2023 — Publix Super Markets recognized Charlotte Division Store Manager Josh Stubblefield, Louisville, Kentucky, with the 2023 George W. Jenkins Award at the company’s retail operations conference.

Josh works to establish the strong culture at Publix and lives the Mr. George lesson of “being there” for his team. 

“It’s important to me as a leader to treat everyone with dignity and respect and connect with the hearts and minds of our associates,” said Josh. “I want them to see Publix as a family and not just as a place to work.”

Josh has earned the reputation among his team as someone who prepares his associates for opportunities and encourages them to keep working toward their goals. 

“I tell my team to never give up and always give your best,” he said. “You always have the opportunity to address a challenge or difficult situation and turn things around.”

About the honoree

Josh started his career in 1998 as a front service clerk and continued to work his way up through the grocery department before becoming an assistant store manager. In 2014, he was promoted to store manager in LaGrange, Georgia. In 2023, he was named the store manager in Louisville, Kentucky, where he will oversee the opening of Publix’s first Kentucky location.

About the George W. Jenkins Award

Named after Publix’s founder, the George W. Jenkins Award 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 a member of this deserving group of honorees.

Josh joins Atlanta Division Store Manager Joy Daniell, Jacksonville Division Store Manager Wes Oliver, Lakeland Division Store Manager Denise Peterson, Miami Division Store Manager Carlos Fonseca, and Senior Director of Accounting Ken Stanger as this year’s George W. Jenkins Award recipients.