Otto to Succeed Harper as H-E-B's Chief Merchant

SAN ANTONIO — H.E. Butt Grocery Co. here said yesterday that Martin Otto will become chief merchant effective Jan. 1, 2010. Otto has been with H-E-B for 18 years, and is the company's chief financial officer – a position that he will continue to hold.

Otto assumes the role of chief merchant from Steve Harper, who plans to transition into "semi-retirement," the company said. Plans call for Harper to continue to work with H-E-B on a part-time basis, mentoring key leaders within the company and assessing opportunities within its manufacturing and retail operations.

Otto previously was executive vice president of grocery and fresh merchandising and procurement, and he also led several of H-E-B's operating areas throughout Texas.

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