LAKELAND, Fla. Publix announced that it has promoted Joseph DiBenedetto to Atlanta Division VP effective Jan. 1, 2011.

DiBenedetto began his Publix career in 1975 as a front-service clerk in Cape Coral, Fla. He became a store manager in 1986 and district manager in 1992. He was also Publix’s first district manager in South Carolina. He has been a regional director in the Atlanta Division since June 1995.

“Developing our leaders for future opportunities is important to our long-term success,” said CEO Ed Crenshaw. “I am pleased we have leaders like Joe who are prepared to take on new roles.”