'People see me and start talking like I'm their long-lost friend': H-E-B president to retire

H-E-B President Scott McClelland will be resigning from the company after three decades later this year. 

McClelland joined the Texas-based grocery chain in 1990. He was quickly promoted as president of the grocer's Houston-area market until beginning to oversee the statewide operation in 2017.

“People see me and start talking like I'm their long-lost friend," McClelland said. "The thing I hear most is, 'You're not as fat as you look on TV,' and 'Your glasses make you look like a turtle.' I know I have a face for radio, but come on. People don't hold back saying what they think." 

McClelland has gained the nickname "the H-E-B" due to his many appearances in the grocery chain's television ads. A number of these commercials have featured notable Houston athletes like Jose Altuve and J.J. Watt, although Watt has moved on and now plays for the Arizona Cardinals. McClelland's official last day in his role is on Dec. 31, 2022. 

One last order of business for him is to assist with the chain's entry into Dallas. H-E-B handles $25 billion in both Texas and Mexico, according to a report from KHOU 11, making it a major operation for whoever succeeds McClelland. The company has also earned plaudits for its various efforts in the community, most notably donating $5 million to relief for Hurricane Harvey victims. 

McClelland received his bachelor's degree at USC and a graduate degree at Harvard, according to a report from KHOU 11. He also received acting training at one point in his life, aiding him with his memorable performances in the brand's television commercials, according to a report from click2houston. Prior to coming to H-E-B, McClelland worked for 10 years for Frito Lay in marketing. 

His tenure at the helm of H-E-B was successful, with the chain's market share growing from 11% to 25% during that time.