Dec. 5, 2023 — Publix Super Markets recognized Miami Division Store Manager Carlos Fonseca, Miami, with the 2023 George W. Jenkins Award at the company’s retail operations conference.

Carlos spends time getting to know his associates and explains to them why making a career at Publix is so rewarding. His main goal as a store manager is to embody the principles of providing premier service by consistently placing the needs of others before his own and fostering a culture of teamwork and support among his colleagues.  

“One of the most important career lessons I have learned is that no person puts together an organization on his own,” said Carlos. “When I was promoted to store manager, leaders sat me down, told me the good news and explained to me that I would be the one creating the environment inside the building. I’ll never forget that advice, and since then, I have always done my best to inspire and motivate my people.”

Over the years, Carlos has earned the reputation as someone who dreams big and always puts his associates first. 

“I started working at Publix when I was 15 years old, and I have never worked anywhere else,” he said. “I wouldn’t want it any other way because I know what a privilege it is to work here. I believe we treat our customers so well because Publix treats their associates with dignity and respect. A supportive workplace coincides with great service.” 

About the honoree

Carlos started his career in 1985 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 Miami.

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.

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