Walmart CEO Doug McMillon to Step Down; John Furner Takes Over

Walmart has announced a significant leadership change, with current President and CEO Doug McMillon set to step down on January 31, 2026. He will be succeeded by John Furner, who currently serves as the CEO of Walmart U.S. This transition marks a pivotal moment for the retail giant, as it adapts to the evolving landscape of the industry.

McMillon has led Walmart since 2014, guiding the company through various challenges and innovations. Following his departure, he will remain on the board of directors and serve as an advisor to Furner during the transition period, which is expected to continue through the fiscal year 2027. This phased approach aims to ensure continuity in leadership and strategic initiatives.

As Furner prepares to take on the role of President and CEO effective February 1, 2026, he brings over three decades of experience with Walmart. Starting his career as an hourly associate, he has held numerous positions within the company, which has provided him with a comprehensive understanding of its operations across all segments. His appointment underscores Walmart’s commitment to internal talent development and positions him to lead the company into the future.

In a statement, Greg Penner, Walmart’s board chairman, expressed confidence in Furner’s capabilities. He emphasized the importance of Furner’s experience in guiding Walmart through its next phase of growth and transformation. The retail sector is currently experiencing rapid changes driven by technological advancements and shifting consumer behaviors, making this leadership transition particularly significant.

McMillon praised Furner’s leadership skills, noting their collaboration over the past two decades. He highlighted Furner’s ability to navigate the challenges presented by emerging technologies, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence. This focus on innovation will be critical as Walmart seeks to enhance customer experiences and optimize its operations.

Furner expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead Walmart and acknowledged the strong foundation laid by McMillon. He emphasized his commitment to the company’s values, associates, and the communities it serves. Furner is keen on finding new ways to support customers and strengthen community ties while maintaining Walmart’s core purpose.

The company is also in the process of identifying a successor for Furner as CEO of Walmart U.S., with an announcement expected before the end of the fiscal year 2026. This proactive approach signifies Walmart’s strategic planning for continued leadership stability as it adapts to market dynamics.

As the retail landscape continues to evolve, Walmart’s leadership transition reflects the company’s dedication to innovation and growth, ensuring it remains competitive in an increasingly complex environment.