Publix Super Markets CEO Kevin Murphy has announced the retirement of two VPs and the promotion of two new officers, effective Jan. 1.
Randy Barber, VP of industrial maintenance and industrial operations purchasing, will retire after 46 years of service.
Barber began his Publix career in 1978 as a front service clerk in Lakeland, Florida. He transferred to the Lakeland dairy plant in 1982, where he held various positions before being promoted to category manager of supplies purchasing in 2001. In 2009, he was named Lakeland dairy plant general manager, and in 2013, he was promoted to director of industrial maintenance. He has been serving in his current role since 2018.
With Barber’s retirement, Publix has promoted John Fisher, previously director of industrial maintenance and industrial operations purchasing, to Barber’s position.
Additionally, after more than a decade of service, VP of Facilities Bob McGarrity also has announced his decision to retire at the end of 2024.
McGarrity joined Publix in 2012 as director of construction in Lakeland, Florida. He was promoted to his current role in 2017.
With McGarrity’s retirement, Publix has promoted Architect Program Manager Dave Taulbee to VP of facilities.
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“Randy’s dedication to overseeing our non-retail locations and ensuring retail and industrial operations have the equipment, supplies and packaging needed to operate at peak performance has made us a better company. He’s shared his passion for Publix and his vast knowledge of industrial operations with his teams for over four decades,” Murphy said.
“Bob’s commitment to the design, construction and maintenance of our stores and equipment has continued to enhance the shopping experience for our customers. He’s perpetuated our culture of working together to accomplish a common goal. We are grateful for Randy’s and Bob’s years of dedicated service and the mentorship they have given to countless associates. We wish them well in their retirements.”
