Global retail giant Walmart has announced the appointment of Judith McKenna as president and chief executive of Walmart International, the company's second-largest operating segment.
McKenna, who is currently executive vice president and chief operating officer for Walmart US, is set to succeed David Cheesewright, effective 1 February.
She began her Walmart career in 1996, serving as chief operating officer and chief financial officer at the group's UK operation Asda, before moving to its US division in 2014.
“I’ve had the pleasure to work with Judith for many years and have seen first-hand her ability to lead strategic change, build relationships with our associates and strengthen our business," said Doug McMillon, Walmart president and CEO.
"It has been inspiring to see her personal growth and the results she’s driven over the years. Her integrity, high expectations and passion for the business and our associates will ensure our continued success in International.”
Key Appointment
McKenna's potential promotion was first reported earlier in the week, with Bloomberg analysts describing this as a "critical role", which in the past has served as a stepping stone to the retail group's top job.
Both current chief executive McMillion and his predecessor, Mike Duke, previously headed Walmart's international division, which operates more than 6,200 retail units, with 55 banners in 27 countries outside of the US.
The new appointment is one of several shake-ups announced by Walmart this month.
Last week the retailer revealed plans to close 63 of its Sam's Club stores in the US, as it shifts focus to its e-commerce business, on the same day as it introduced new payment benefits for staff members, including the increase of starting wage rates in the US to $11 an hour.
© 2018 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Sarah Harford. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: The European Supermarket Magazine.
