Publix Lakeland Division VP Sam Pero has announced that he will retire at the end of this year after 45 years with the company.
Pero began his Publix career in 1977 as a part-time front service clerk in Pembroke Pines, Florida. After working in various retail and management positions, he became Lakeland Division district manager in 1994. He was eventually promoted to his current position in 2016.
“Sam has been an energetic leader having made significant contributions in three of our five divisions. He has been responsible for growing and serving our diverse market area,” Publix president Kevin Murphy said in a statement. “In his 45 years, he has trained and mentored countless associates and has been committed to serving his customers and communities in times of need. We are thankful for Sam’s leadership and wish him a happy retirement.”
Pero was devoted to DEI in the workplace, receiving the 1999 President’s Award for fostering diversity and inclusion.
With his retirement, Publix has promoted Marsha Singh to the Lakeland Division VP role.
“Marsha is a dynamic leader who focuses on coaching, training, and developing associates,” said Murphy in a statement. “She has made a positive impact on the lives of those around her by helping them achieve their personal best. She is also focused on operational excellence and continuous quality improvement. Marsha is a great merchant who is passionate about service. I am proud of what she has been able to accomplish so far and excited to see the contributions she will continue to make at Publix.”
Singh also touts a long career with the company, beginning in 1993 as a part-time cashier in Palm Bay, Florida. After working in various retail and management positions, she became the district manager in the Jacksonville Division in 2015. She was promoted to regional director in the Lakeland Division in 2018.
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