If Cleo and Leo Stater were around today they would likely be amazed at the size and scope of the operation that bears their name. Founded in 1936 in Yucaipa, Stater Bros. Markets has gone from a small community store to the largest privately–owned supermarket chain in Southern California. Much of that growth is due to the extraordinary vision and leadership of an individual that has spent most of his life in the grocery business; San Bernardino native Jack H. Brown, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Stater Bros. Markets.

Brown got his start in the grocery industry at the age of 13, working as a box boy at Berk’s Market Spot in San Bernardino. Brown learned early on that it’s important to find a profession you like, you’re good at, and then work really hard.

After college and a stint in the US Navy, Brown followed his passion and pursued a career in the grocery industry. His talent and work ethic quickly distinguished him and over the next 25 years, Brown served in a variety of positions with supermarket chains across the country including Sage’s Complete Markets, San Bernardino, California; Marsh Supermarkets, Indianapolis, Indiana; Pantry Food Markets, Pasadena, California; and American Community Stores Corporation, Omaha, Nebraska.

Eventually he returned home in 1981, joining Stater Bros. as President and CEO. Since that time, Jack and his team have taken Stater Bros. to unprecedented heights for a local firm. Revenues have risen from 5 million to approximately billion, the number of stores has increased from 72 to 167 and the Stater Bros. family has grown from 3,300 members to more than 18,000 today.

While the growth of Stater Bros. has been impressive, not surprisingly Brown doesn’t focus solely on the numbers or accolades when reflecting on success. He is quick to point out that the most satisfying part of his time at Stater Bros. has been the growth of the people in the organization, many of whom started their careers just like he did: in the grocery store.

Great business leadership has been a hallmark of Brown’s career, but he has also led the way in helping build a better community. Through his efforts and the establishment of Stater Bros. Charities, many lives are positively impacted. In 2010 alone, Stater Bros. contributed more than million to local non-profit organizations in communities throughout Southern California.

At a time when many would be content to rest on their success, Brown and his team continue to move Stater Bros. forward. With the establishment of the new corporate headquarters in San Bernardino and the construction of the largest “under one roof” supermarket distribution center in America, Stater Bros. Markets continues to be an industry leader. With his lifetime of hard work, innovative thinking, team leadership and commitment to keeping Stater Bros. a “hometown company,” there is no finer example of the Spirit of the Entrepreneur.