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Walmart Unveils Sweeping Leadership Shakeup Ahead of February CEO Transition

Walmart announces major leadership changes as John Furner is named CEO, marking a new era for the retail giant starting February 1, 2026.

Walmart Inc. has announced a major reorganization of its top leadership team, effective February 1, 2026, coinciding with the transition to a new chief executive officer as the retail giant ushers in its next chapter.

The Board of Directors elected a new slate of executives to the company’s Executive Council, a move designed to sharpen focus on innovation, operations, and global enterprise platforms as Walmart navigates rapid shifts in technology and retail.

New CEO and Executive Leadership

  • John Furner will assume the role of President and Chief Executive Officer of Walmart Inc., succeeding Doug McMillon, who is retiring after more than a decade at the helm. Furner has served in senior leadership roles across the company and will guide Walmart’s strategic direction into its “next phase of retail transformation.”
  • David Guggina has been named President and CEO of Walmart U.S., leading the company’s largest retail division. Guggina, previously Chief eCommerce Officer for Walmart U.S., brings deep experience in digital, supply chain, and customer fulfillment capabilities.
  • Chris Nicholas will take over as President and CEO of Walmart International, overseeing operations across 17 countries. Nicholas previously led Sam’s Club U.S. and has held multiple global leadership roles within Walmart.
  • Latriece Watkins has been appointed President and CEO of Sam’s Club U.S., stepping up from her role as Chief Merchandising Officer for Walmart U.S. Watkins’ long tenure and merchandising leadership position her to steer the membership retailer’s growth.
  • Seth Dallaire is elevated to Executive Vice President and Chief Growth Officer for Walmart Inc., a role that will expand his oversight of Walmart’s enterprise platforms including Walmart Connect, Walmart+, Walmart Data Ventures, and the company’s global Marketplace.

Strategic Rationale Behind the Shakeup

According to Furner, the leadership changes reflect Walmart’s dual priorities of strengthening customer and member experiences while accelerating its “People Led, Tech Powered” approach.

By centralizing platforms and empowering operating segments to stay closer to customers and markets, the retailer aims to stay at the forefront of omnichannel retail evolution.

The reorganization comes at a pivotal moment as Walmart continues to invest in technology-enabled retail solutions, data analytics, and automation, and follows broader moves such as the company’s recent shift to the Nasdaq stock exchange to highlight its tech-forward strategy.

What’s Next

All leadership appointments officially take effect on February 1, 2026, marking a coordinated transition as the company prepares for the post-McMillon era. The new leadership team is expected to drive Walmart’s strategic priorities across digital, supply chain, and global growth initiatives.

Stay tuned for more updates on how these executive changes are expected to impact Walmart’s strategy, performance, and competitive positioning in the rapidly evolving retail landscape.

More about Walmart:

Doug McMillon Reflects on Career as Walmart CEO Retirement Nears
After four decades at Walmart, CEO Doug McMillon plans to retire in January 2026 and has said he’s looking forward to a “blank calendar” before pursuing future business and philanthropic interests.
Walmart Names John Furner as President & CEO
Walmart Inc.’s board has elected John Furner as President and Chief Executive Officer effective February 1, 2026, marking a key transition in the retailer’s omnichannel leadership.
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