LAKELAND, FL - Boosting its leadership might, Publix recently announced promotions within its executive team. Going into effect at the start of the year, Chris Mesa and Doug Stalbaum will be advancing in their roles, each stepping up as a Vice President and Controller.

Mesa currently serves as the Director of Tax and Treasury. He began his career in 1986 in Tampa, Florida, as a Front Service Clerk. In 1993, he transferred to support as a Clerk in the treasury department.As noted in the release, Mesa worked in various positions within tax and treasury before being promoted to Senior Tax Manager in 2004, Director of Tax in 2015, and to his current position in 2018.

In addition to his current tax and treasury functions, Mesa will be responsible for merchandise and DSD payables and accounts receivable as he steps up to Vice President and Controller. Amongst his 35-year tenure with the retailer, Mesa is also a recipient of the 2018 George W. Jenkins Award.

Joining Mesa in the Vice President and Controller position is Stalbaum. Stalbaum joined the company in 2019 as Director of Business Analysis and Reporting. Prior to joining Publix, Stalbaum has developed a wealth of retail experience spanning nearly 17 years.

Stalbaum was a Senior Audit Manager at an accounting firm for eight years before joining the Publix team. Prior to that, he was a Senior Director and Controller at a restaurant chain for six years and Director of Finance at a furniture retailer for three years.

According to the release, Stalbaum will be adding to his current information systems and pharmacy support functions responsibilities with new tasks such as financial reporting process, store banking functions, and expense payables.

“We are excited to announce the promotions of Chris and Doug,” said Publix Chief Executive Officer Todd Jones. “Their financial knowledge and commitment to providing premier service to our stores make them valuable members of our team. For our company to have continued success and growth, we need dedicated associates who are ready to take the next step in their Publix careers. We look forward to seeing all they will accomplish in their new roles.”

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