Publix names new executive director of its charity foundation

LAKELAND, Fla. — Publix announced on Tuesday that it promoted Kelly Williams-Puccio to executive director of the Publix Super Markets Charities. In her new position, Williams-Puccio will be responsible for the strategic direction of the charity foundation.

“Giving back to our communities is an important part of our culture,” Publix vice chairman Barney Barnett said. “It’s a core value Mr. George [Jenkins, Publix founder], instilled in us 82 years ago. I am pleased we have leaders like Kelly who are prepared to take on new roles and continue the legacy of giving.”



Williams-Puccio began her Publix career in 1979 as a cashier in Boca Raton, Fla. In 1989, she became manager of personnel records for Publix’s Miami Division, and in 1995 she was promoted to human resources investigations manager. She has been the director of associate relations since 2000.



Kelly and her husband, John, also a Publix associate and manager of welfare benefit plans, live in Lakeland, Fla., and have four daughters. Kelly is board chair for Polk County Junior Achievement and very active with the Girl Scouts, leading four troops and acting as community liaison for South Lakeland.