Publix Promotes 2 in Real Estate, Facilities

With the impending retirement of Publix Super Markets VP of Facilities Dave Duncan, after 42 years of service, on Dec. 31, Director of Construction Bob McGarrity will be promoted to VP of facilities, and VP of Real Estate Jeff Chamberlain will become SVP, overseeing real estate and facilities, effective Jan. 1, 2017.

“During Dave’s many years of dedicated service, he was instrumental in the success of numerous projects,” said Todd Jones, CEO and president of Lakeland, Fla.-based Publix. “He has supported our company growth, while being a champion for our sustainability efforts, including launching our Green Routine program more than a decade ago.”

McGarrity has 30-plus years of experience leading commercial construction, real estate development and facilities management teams. Before joining Publix in his current role in 2012, he managed facilities and construction as a commander in the U.S. Navy’s Civil Engineer Corps. McGarrity was also a senior development officer for AG Armstrong Development and Regency Centers. In his new role, he will oversee the design, construction and maintenance of stores and equipment.

Chamberlain began his Publix career in 1972 as a part-time front service clerk in Satellite Beach, Fla. After rising through the ranks to store manager in 1984, he was promoted to real estate manager in 1991, to director of market strategy for real estate in 1999 and to his current role in 2011. As SVP, Chamberlain will have oversight of the company’s facilities department alongside his current responsibilities.

“As our company continues to expand, I’m confident in the abilities of Bob and Jeff to help introduce Publix to new markets,” added Jones. “They are passionate about Publix and our associates.”

Privately owned and operated by its 184,500 employees, Publix has 1,127 stores in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, South Carolina and North Carolina.