How did you get your start in the produce industry?
Actually, I began in the produce industry as a 12-year-old selling corn and watermelons off my dad’s pickup truck during summers in Brownsville, Texas. Officially, I began my produce career in May of 1981 as a produce clerk for HEB in Brownsville, my hometown. My dad worked for HEB in the mid-1960s.
What roles have you held during you career?
I worked 30 years for HEB. I was director of sales and merchandising for the Mexico division and director of produce in San Antonio as my last two roles there. I served as director of produce and marketing for Lowe’s Pay and Save, director of produce at Coborn’s in the Midwest and in my current role, I am the director of produce at Rouses.
What industry groups are you involved with?
I am a member of Southeast Produce Council, Texas International Produce Association and have served on advisory committees for Produce Marketing Association. I was involved with the Food Bank and HEB’s Feast of Sharing and was president of the Cameron County Child Welfare Board.
What professional accomplishment are you most proud of?
The numerous folks I was able to work with and help develop their career growth. Seeing them flourish in leadership roles, whether it’s produce manager, store/unit directors or produce buyer or director, has been most rewarding to me. It’s just a great feeling to make a difference in someone’s professional life. Also, my time in Mexico and helping that team grow to what it is today…
What does leadership mean to you?
I try to be a servant leader in my role. I believe that the better you take care of your employees, the better the employees take care of the organization. It works!
Who are some of your industry mentors?
I have three leaders who mean the most to me. Charles Butt for being the most giving, generous and visionary man that he is. Howard Butt for mentoring me in my role in Mexico. Craig Boyan for having faith and trust in me as I grew in my senior leadership role at HEB.
What’s a little-known or fun fact about you?
Most people don’t know that I am a diehard Elvis Presley fanatic. I love to do karaoke of Elvis (pre-COVID) any chance I get. “Hound Dog” is my personal favorite.
What’s your favorite efficiency hack?
My efficiency hack is to make your bed every day. It gives me a sense of organization in the morning and a sense of achievement when I get home.
If you had to pick one fruit or vegetable to eat every day for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Avocado, no question about it. I love me some avocados. I eat at minimum (five medium) a week. They go with everything!!! When I die, I want to get cremated, and I would like my ashes placed in an urn the shape of an avocado. I’m really serious and have written those specifications in my will. The fruit to me represents in so many ways my life in produce that I would not have known if not for my dad. Love you, Dad!
