John Furner to succeed Doug McMillon as President and CEO of Walmart

Walmart announced that its Board of Directors has elected John Furner, 51, to succeed Doug McMillon, 59, as President and Chief Executive Officer of Walmart Inc., effective February 1, 2026.  

Furner was also elected to the company’s Board of Directors, effective immediately. McMillon will retire on January 31, 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,” 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,” Penner further said.

Furner has served as President and CEO of Walmart US 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 US. Known for his collaborative leadership style, Furner has championed associate development, digital innovation, and operational excellence throughout his tenure.

McMillon stated that serving as Walmart’s CEO had been a great honour and expressed his gratitude to the Board and the Walton family for the opportunity. He said he was extremely proud of Walmart associates' accomplishments and deeply appreciative of their commitment to customers, one another, and the communities they serve. McMillon also highlighted his long working relationship with Furner, noting his deep dedication to both the associates and the company, as well as his curiosity, digital expertise, and strong commitment to people and culture. He indicated that these qualities would enable Furner to lead Walmart through its next AI-driven transformation, describing him as a merchant, operator, innovator, and builder. 

McMillon expressed confidence in the company’s future under John’s leadership.

Furner said, “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 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.”

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 US before the end of FY2026.