LAKELAND, Fla. — Publix Super Markets said Monday that Executive Chairman Todd Jones plans to retire from his role effective May 31, concluding a 46-year career with the company while continuing to serve as chairman of its board of directors.
Jones, who has held a range of leadership roles culminating in chief executive officer and later executive chairman, will remain actively involved in guiding the employee-owned grocer’s long-term strategy from the board level, the company said.
“We celebrate Todd's 46-year career and are thankful for his exemplary service to our company, our associates and customers, and the communities we serve,” Publix CEO Kevin Murphy said. “In addition to being an outstanding operator and mentor, Todd has led with integrity and a deep commitment to our mission that will have lasting impact.”
Jones reflected on the company’s legacy and future direction in announcing his retirement.
“Our founder, George Jenkins, built Publix based on a clear vision, and that vision remains our north star,” Jones said. “It has been my honor to work for the greatest company in the world and a privilege to work alongside our associates to carry forward what George Jenkins created almost 96 years ago.”
Jones joined Publix in 1980 as a front-service clerk in New Smyrna Beach, Fla., and steadily rose through the ranks. After serving in store-level roles, he became a store manager in 1988 and later advanced to district manager, regional director and vice president of the Jacksonville Division. He was named senior vice president of product business development in 2005, president in 2008 and CEO and president in 2016. He became CEO in 2019 and transitioned to executive chairman in 2024.
Throughout his tenure, Jones played a key role in shaping Publix’s operational strategy and reinforcing its culture, earning the company’s highest honor, the George W. Jenkins Award for excellence, in 1994.
Beyond operations, Jones was a visible advocate for the grocery industry through his involvement with FMI, where he supported initiatives aimed at strengthening the food supply chain and advancing industry collaboration.
His leadership also emphasized community impact, particularly in addressing food insecurity. Jones championed Publix’s Good Together food donation and register campaigns, efforts that contributed to the company surpassing 1 billion pounds of donated food in 2025.
In addition, he supported initiatives focused on fostering a workplace culture centered on inclusion and respect, while advancing sustainability efforts related to water conservation, recycling and energy reduction.
Jones currently serves on the boards of the Florida Council of 100 and the Fish and Wildlife Foundation of Florida. He is a former FMI board member and was recently inducted into the Tampa Bay Business Hall of Fame. He also remains active in charitable efforts, including volunteer work with organizations supported by United Way.
With Jones transitioning out of day-to-day responsibilities, Publix leadership emphasized continuity, with Murphy and the broader executive team continuing to guide the company’s operations and strategic priorities.
The company said Jones’ ongoing role as board chairman will help ensure a smooth transition while maintaining alignment with the values and long-term vision established by its founder.
