BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Walmart Inc. announced that its Board of Directors has elected John Furner to succeed Doug McMillon as president and CEO, marking a significant leadership change at the world’s largest retailer. Furner, 51, will assume the role on February 1, 2026. McMillon, 59, will retire on January 31, remain on the Board until the next annual shareholders’ meeting, and continue as an advisor through fiscal 2027.
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“John Furner is the right leader to guide Walmart into our next chapter of growth and transformation,” said 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 six-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.
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 eCommerce 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.”
McMillon called the role “a great honor,” praising Walmart associates and expressing confidence in the company’s future under Furner.
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“Serving as Walmart’s CEO has been a great honor and I’m thankful to our Board and the Walton family for the opportunity. I’m incredibly proud of what our associates accomplished and deeply grateful for their commitment to our customers, to each other and to the communities we serve. Thank you, everyone. I’ve worked with John for more than 20 years. 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.”
Furner, who has served as president and CEO of Walmart U.S. since 2019, said he is “deeply honored” by the election.
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“I am deeply honored 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 fueled 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.”
Furner started his career at Walmart as an hourly employee in 1993 and has held leadership positions in merchandising, operations, and sourcing, including serving as president and CEO of Sam’s Club. Walmart announced it will appoint a new CEO for Walmart U.S. before the end of fiscal 2026.
