US retail chain Walmart has appointed John Furner as its next president and CEO, effective from 1 February 2026.
Furner will replace Doug McMillon, who has been at the helm since 2014.
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McMillon will step down on 31 January 2026 and stay on the board until June, acting as an adviser to Furner through FY2027.
Furner has also joined the retailer’s board of directors with immediate effect.
Furner stated: “I am deeply honoured by the trust the board and family have placed in me to lead Walmart, a company that has shaped my life and so many others. I’m grateful to Doug for his leadership and mentorship and the foundation that is built for our future.
“As we enter a new retail era fuelled by innovation and AI, our purpose and our people will continue to guide us. Together, we’ll find new ways to serve customers, support our associates and strengthen the communities we call home.”
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By GlobalDataFurner has worked as president and CEO of Walmart US since 2019, managing more than 4,600 stores.
He joined the company in 1993 as an hourly associate and has held senior positions across merchandising, operations and sourcing in multiple countries, including those of president and CEO of Sam’s Club US.
Walmart will announce Furner’s successor as CEO of Walmart US before the end of FY2026.
Walmart chairman Greg Penner stated: “John Furner is the right leader to guide Walmart into our next chapter of growth and transformation. After starting as an hourly associate and being with us for over 30 years in a variety of leadership roles across all three of our operating segments, John understands every dimension of our business – from the sales floor to global strategy.”
The retailer operates more than 10,750 stores and e-commerce sites across 19 countries, with FY2025 revenue of $681bn and a workforce of 2.1 million.
Walmart has introduced a range of AI-powered shopping features on its mobile app in preparation for the 2025 holiday season.
The company’s latest updates included AI-generated shopping lists, store-specific savings recommendations and improved navigation features showing the exact in-store location of products.
