Harold Lee Scott Jr. is an American businessman who served as the third chief executive officer of Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., from January 2000 to January 2009. Scott joined Walmart in 1979 and under his leadership, the company retained its position as the largest retailer in the world based on revenue, although the company faced growing criticism during his tenure for its environmental footprint, labor practices, and economic impact. Scott has been a board member of Walmart since 1999, and served as chairman of the executive committee of the retailer's board of directors.