USA | Walmart Inc. has announced that its Board of Directors has elected John Furner to succeed Doug McMillon as President and Chief Executive Officer of Walmart Inc., effective the 1st of February 2026.
Furner was also elected to the company’s Board of Directors, effective immediately. McMillon will retire on the 31st of January 2026, but will 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. 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,” said Greg Penner, Chairman of Walmart Inc.
“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.”
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.
On behalf of the Board, Penner thanked Doug McMillon for his extraordinary leadership and the incredible impact he has had on the 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 modernising 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.”
As the company has done in previous CEO transitions, McMillon will remain on the Board until June, in addition to serving as an advisor to Furner through FY2027. The company plans to announce Furner’s successor as CEO of Walmart U.S. before the end of FY2026.
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