Walmart Inc. (Nasdaq: WMT) has shared several executive leadership changes designed to fuel innovation and drive the new era of retail, with all appointments effective Feb. 1.
The board of directors has elected new leaders to its executive council, and Incoming President and CEO John Furner shared additional organizational changes.
“Over my 32 years with Walmart, I’ve seen that our people are our greatest competitive advantage. These internal promotions reflect our culture of opportunity and the depth of our leadership bench,” Furner said.
“These leadership changes also mark a key step in how we organize for the future. Even the best teams need the right structure to win. As AI rapidly reshapes retail, we are centralizing our platforms to accelerate shared capabilities, freeing up our operating segments to be more focused on and closer to our customers and members.”
David Guggina, EVP and chief e-commerce officer for Walmart U.S., will become president and CEO of Walmart U.S. Under Guggina’s leadership, Walmart has built industry-leading delivery capabilities that serve 95 percent of U.S. households in under three hours. Guggina’s background in e-commerce and supply chain operations positions him to continue driving the company’s goals. Previously, he was EVP of supply chain operations for Walmart U.S.
Chris Nicholas, president and CEO of Sam’s Club U.S., will succeed Kath McLay as president and CEO of Walmart International. Nicholas has significant international experience, having lived and worked in more than 10 countries. Previously, he served as COO for Walmart U.S. with responsibility for all aspects of Walmart’s U.S. store operations and supply chain, CFO for Walmart U.S. and CFO for Walmart International.
Latriece Watkins, EVP and chief merchandising officer for Walmart U.S., is being named president and CEO of Sam’s Club U.S. Watkins started her career with Walmart as an intern in 1997. Among her successes, she reshaped the Walmart U.S. assortment strategy, drove operational excellence and ensured a consistent, trusted shopping experience. Watkins has held leadership roles across Sam’s Club, Walmart U.S. merchandising, people and U.S. store operations.
Seth Dallaire, EVP and chief growth officer for Walmart U.S., is being named EVP and chief growth officer for Walmart Inc. Over the past several years, Dallaire and his team have helped Walmart U.S. expand beyond traditional retail, building new revenue streams enhancing customer value. In his new enterprise role, Dallaire will have responsibility for global enterprise platforms, including Walmart Connect/digital advertising, Walmart+, Walmart Data Ventures, Vizio, Sam’s Club MAP, as well as a global marketplace platform.
McLay will depart Walmart, remaining in her role until Jan. 31 and continuing at the company through the first quarter to help ensure a smooth transition.
“I’m grateful for the positive impact Kath has had on our people and our company throughout her decade of service,” said Doug McMillon, president and CEO of Walmart Inc.
[RELATED: Walmart Taps Furner To Succeed McMillon As President, CEO]
