For more than a century, H-E-B has been the backbone of Texas communities, from feeding families after hurricanes to sponsoring schools and lifting up small businesses. Now, in a historic move, the San Antonio-based grocer has once again etched its name in the Texas history books by appointing Roxanne Orsak as its first-ever woman President, effective January 2026.

This is more than a corporate promotion. This is a glass ceiling shattered.

A 120-Year Legacy Comes Full Circle

H-E-B’s story began in 1905 with Florence Butt, a trailblazing entrepreneur who opened a small grocery store in Kerrville, Texas. Fast forward 120 years, and the company she founded now passes the presidential torch to another groundbreaking woman.

With this appointment, Orsak doesn’t just step into leadership—she steps into history. Her promotion reaffirms H-E-B’s DNA: bold, people-first, and deeply Texan.

From Store Trainee to President

Roxanne Orsak’s journey is a Texas-sized story of grit, growth, and grace. She joined H-E-B in 1988 as a store management trainee and never looked back. Over 37 years, she rose through nearly every division: store operations, merchandising, procurement, format design, and more.

Her fingerprints are on some of H-E-B’s biggest innovations, from the H-E-B Plus! mega-stores to the beloved Joe V’s Smart Shop. In 2022, she was named Chief Operating Officer. Now, she will make history as President—continuing to report to CEO Howard Butt III.

“I’ve always believed that H-E-B is more than a grocery store—it’s a family committed to making life better for Texans,” Orsak shared. “I’m honored to lead with integrity, heart, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.”

Carrying Forward Craig Boyan’s Legacy

Orsak’s appointment comes as Craig Boyan, H-E-B’s President since 2010, transitions to a senior advisor role ahead of his 2026 retirement. Under Boyan’s steady hand, H-E-B expanded sales from $10 billion to $50 billion, pioneered e-commerce innovation, and steered Texans through crises from hurricanes to a pandemic.

Boyan leaves behind not just numbers but a culture of collaboration. “Retail is a team sport,” he often said, and Roxanne Orsak is the MVP stepping into the captain’s seat.

A Champion of People, Community, and Innovation

Orsak’s leadership style is simple yet profound: listen to the Partners (employees) so they can take great care of customers. She is also deeply engaged in philanthropy, from supporting rural schools and youth development to championing the South Texas Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Her academic credentials are equally impressive: Texas A&M graduate, with advanced training at Harvard Business School and the University of Southern California’s Food Industry Management Program.

Why This Moment Matters

In a state where H-E-B is more than a grocer—it’s a lifeline—Orsak’s historic appointment sends a resounding message: women not only belong at the table, they can lead it.

Her presidency echoes the pioneering spirit of Florence Butt while paving the way for future generations of women leaders in Texas and beyond.

What’s Next for H-E-B

As H-E-B celebrates its 120th anniversary, Orsak’s presidency marks the beginning of a new chapter: one rooted in innovation, inclusivity, and impact. With over 455 stores, 175,000 Partners, and annual sales topping $50 billion, H-E-B is poised for continued growth under her leadership.

And as every Texan knows, when H-E-B leads, communities thrive.

Final Word

Houston Style Magazine celebrates this milestone not just as a corporate announcement, but as a cultural moment for Texas. Roxanne Orsak’s rise to President is living proof that when leadership is fueled by heart, hustle, and heritage, history isn’t just made—it’s H-E-B made.