Walmart CEO Doug McMillon, 59, will retire as chief executive on January 31, 2026, concluding a 40‑year career with the retail giant that began in 1984 and rose from hourly associate to its top executive. McMillon will remain with the company in an advisory role during 2026 to support the leadership transition.
McMillon’s tenure has coincided with a period of significant transformation at Walmart, including the expansion of e‑commerce, investments in technology such as AI and automation, and modernization of the company’s supply chain and workforce programs.
Under his leadership, Walmart’s stock has climbed more than 300 % and the company’s revenue base expanded substantially, reflecting both digital growth and core retail resilience.
When discussing his upcoming retirement, McMillon told CNBC that one of the things he’s most looking forward to is simply having a “blank calendar” — a break from constant scheduling after decades in executive leadership. He also indicated that his post‑Walmart plans will likely combine business and philanthropic activities, though specific commitments have not yet been announced.
McMillon’s successor, John Furner, currently president and chief executive of Walmart U.S., will assume the CEO role on February 1, 2026, continuing Walmart’s long‑established tradition of internal leadership progression.
