Bentonville, Ark. — The board of directors of Walmart Inc. has elected John Furner to succeed Doug McMillon as president and chief executive officer, effective Feb. 1, 2026. Furner was also elected to the company’s board of directors, effective immediately. McMillon will retire on Jan. 31, 2026, but remain on the board of directors until the next annual shareholders’ meeting and help ensure a smooth transition.
“John Furner is the right leader to guide Walmart into our next chapter of growth and transformation,” says Greg Penner, chairman of Walmart Inc. “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. He has proven that he can deliver results while living our values. John’s 6-year leadership of our Walmart U.S. business during a time of rapid change, marked by digital acceleration and strong associate engagement, has positioned us for continued success.”
“I’ve worked with John for more than 20 years,” says McMillon. “His love for our associates and this company runs deep. His curiosity and digital acumen combined with a deep commitment to our people and culture will enable him to take us to the next level. He’s uniquely capable of leading the company through this next AI-driven transformation. He’s a merchant, an operator, an innovator and a builder. I know that our future is bright with his leadership.”
Adds Penner: “On behalf of the board, I want to thank Doug McMillon for his extraordinary leadership and incredible impact he has had on our company. Our family and board have stated many times that Doug was uniquely qualified to be CEO at the necessary time for Walmart. Over more than a decade as CEO, Doug led a comprehensive transformation by investing in our associates, advancing our digital and e-commerce capabilities, and modernizing our supply chain, resulting in sustained, robust financial performance. He leaves Walmart stronger, more innovative and better aligned with our purpose to help people save money and live better.”
Furner has served as president and CEO of Walmart U.S. since 2019, overseeing the company’s largest operating segment and its more than 4,600 stores. He began his Walmart career as an hourly associate in 1993 and has held leadership roles across merchandising, operations and sourcing. He has lived and worked in multiple countries and served as president and CEO of Sam’s Club U.S. Known for his collaborative leadership style, Furner has championed associate development, digital innovation and operational excellence throughout his tenure.
As the company has done with previous CEO transitions, McMillon will stay on the board until June, in addition to staying on as an advisor to Furner through fiscal year 2027. The company plans to make an announcement on Furner’s successor as CEO of Walmart U.S. before the end of fiscal year 2026.
Walmart Inc. has more than 10,750 stores and numerous e-commerce websites in 19 countries. Walmart continues to be a leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy and employment opportunity. For more information, visit www.corporate.walmart.com.
SOURCE: Walmart Inc.