Dec. 14, 2022 — Publix Super Markets recognized Jacksonville Division District Manager Nicolla Binford with the 2022 President’s Award at the company’s retail operations conference.

Binford’s managers describe her as someone who is a champion for an inclusive workforce. She goes above and beyond to allocate the time and resources necessary to develop the best possible. Publix leaders. As a result, several managers have advanced in their careers under her leadership.


“The thing I love most about Publix is the relationships I build that carry on through the years,” said Binford. “To me, One Publix, One Purpose means not only helping our company grow and be successful but helping each other as well.”

Binford shows her dedication to Publix associates who work in her region by personalizing her approach when providing one-on-one coaching to set new managers up for continued success. 

In her efforts to diversify her workforce, Binford has partnered with Second Harvest Food Bank’s culinary program to connect with potential hiring candidates. During the 16-week course, program members are taught basic culinary skills to help them return to the workforce. Binford leads a class on decorating, bringing along a Publix bakery manager and assistant bakery manager.

“Before I was promoted to district manager, I was worried about losing some of those relationships I’d built with people,” she said. “But in reality, I get to maintain those relationships and build many more. I went to school to be a teacher, but I feel like I get the best of both worlds, because in my role I get to be a teacher and mentor.” 

Binford was shocked and honored when she learned she had been named this year’s Jacksonville Division President’s Award recipient. 

“I guess when you love what you do, you don’t do it for recognition,” she said. “I’m so grateful to work for such a great company that allows me to do what I love. I wouldn’t have the things I have today or be the person I am today if it wasn’t for Publix.” 

About the honoree
Binford began working for Publix in 1999 as a cashier at #667, Deltona, Florida, alongside her sister and grandmother. She held various positions in retail before being promoted to store manager in 2012 and district manager in 2019.

About the President’s Award
The President’s Award honors one district manager from each division and one support manager who is committed to perpetuating diversity and inclusion (D&I) in our workplace. In addition, the recipient must be a role model to others through their demonstration of exemplary leadership.  

Binford joins Atlanta Division District Manager Allie Holberg, Charlotte Division District Manager Dawne Steinbach, Lakeland Division District Manager Julian Agollari, Miami Division District Manager Kris Crapo and Manager of Warehousing Operations, Deerfield Distribution, Caven Morgan as this year’s President’s Award recipients.