LAKELAND, FL - Publix is ushering in a new era of leadership as Bob Bechtel, Vice President of Customer Experience, has announced his decision to retire on March 31 after 45 years with the company. The retailer has named David Finger, current Director of Omnichannel, as his successor.

Finger started his Publix career in 1993 as a front service clerk in Mt. Dora, Florida. He worked in the customer service department before transferring to the corporate office in 2000, a release stated. He served in various roles before being promoted in 2015 to director of retail scheduling and forecasting, and in 2017, he transferred to his current position.

“Through every position David has held, he’s kept our customers top of mind, partnering with business areas across the company to find ways to improve our services and streamline our processes,” Kevin Murphy, Chief Executive Officer said. “I am excited to see how he will continue to find ways to raise the bar on Publix’s service levels and build on creating a premier shopping experience for our customers.”

Bechtel began at Publix in 1978 as a front service clerk in Sarasota, Florida. He worked in various roles before being promoted to store manager in 1991, Lakeland Division district manager in 1995, regional director in 2008, and Miami Division vice president in 2016. He was promoted to his current position in 2019.

During his tenure, Bechtel received the 2005 President’s Award for perpetuating diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

“Bob has spent his career focusing on customer service,” added Murphy. “Through his leadership and efforts, he has helped our associates provide a premier shopping environment that has exceeded our customers’ expectations and helped create raving fans at Publix. We thank Bob for his many years of service to Publix and wish him the best in his retirement.”

Best of luck to both leaders as they enter these new phases of their careers!