Publix Super Markets CEO Ed Crenshaw today said he plans to retire as the company’s CEO on April 30. Publix President Todd Jones will succeed Crenshaw.
Crenshaw began his Publix career in 1974 as a front-service clerk in Lake Wales, Florida. After working in a variety of retail and support positions, he was promoted to director of retail operations for the Lakeland Division in 1984. In 1990, he became VP of the Lakeland Division and was elected to the board of directors. In 1991, Crenshaw moved to Atlanta to start the Atlanta Division as division VP. He was promoted to EVP of retail in 1994 and to president in 1996. He was named CEO in 2008.
Crenshaw plans to remain a member of the Publix board of directors. In addition, the board of directors asked him to accept the role of chairman of the board that will be effective May 3, 2016. Current Board Chairman Charlie Jenkins Jr. will become chairman emeritus.
“The board of directors is grateful for Ed’s 42 years of dedicated service to Publix, our associates and the communities we serve,” said Jenkins Jr. “He’s been a strong leader keenly focused on our continued growth in current and new markets and committed to the development and promotion of our associates. He’s provided invaluable insights to our industry, serving on numerous boards. The board looks forward to working with Ed to continue the success of Publix.”
Jones began his career in 1980 as a front-service clerk in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. He worked in a variety of store positions before becoming a store manager in 1988. He was promoted to district manager in 1997, regional director in 1999 and VP of the Jacksonville Division in 2003. In 2005, Jones was promoted to SVP of product business development. He was named president in 2008.
“I’ve been privileged to lead what could quite possibly be the best company in the world,” said Crenshaw. “Company ownership provides our associates amazing opportunities and with that comes the responsibility to continue to grow our company and invest in each other. The time has come to turn over the reins, and I am pleased to have a leader with the experience of Todd who is ready to take the next step in his career. I am confident in his ability to lead our company into the future and to continue to make Publix a great place for both customers and associates.”
*Editor’s note: Publix was recognized recently as The Shelby Report’s 2015 Southeast Retailer of the Year. See the special section here.
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