Walmart is preparing for a major leadership transition. Doug McMillon, who has been at the company's helm for more than a decade, is set to retire on Jan. 31, 2026. He will be replaced on Feb. 1, 2026 by John Furner, the current head of Walmart U.S., marking a new chapter in the company's evolution.
McMillon's tenure has been transformational. Since taking over as CEO in 2014, he oversaw Walmart's shift from a traditional retail giant into a tech-savvy powerhouse. Under his leadership, the company significantly expanded its e-commerce presence, integrated automation and AI, and modernized its supply chain. His time in charge also saw Walmart invest in its workforce: wages for entry-level employees were raised, training programs expanded, and a stronger focus was placed on sustainability.
Despite stepping down, McMillon will not leave Walmart entirely. He is expected to remain on the board until June 2026 and act as an advisor to Furner through the end of fiscal year 2027, ensuring continuity during the handover.
Stepping into his shoes is John Furner, a long-time Walmart insider whose career reflects the company's grassroots spirit. Furner first joined Walmart in 1993 as a part-time store associate. Over the years, he climbed through a variety of roles, store operations, merchandising, sourcing, and even took on international responsibility by working in Walmart's China division. He later led Sam's Club U.S. as CEO, where he pushed for innovation and restructured underperforming units. Since 2019, he has overseen Walmart U.S., the company's largest segment, managing more than 4,600 stores and millions of employees.
Furner holds a degree in marketing management from the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas. His steady progression through Walmart's ranks, and his deep experience across different divisions, give him a rare vantage point. He understands the company from the ground up, and not just domestically but abroad too.
His appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Walmart. The retail giant is navigating a tense economic backdrop, with fluctuating consumer spending and inflationary pressures. At the same time, Walmart is accelerating its push into artificial intelligence and digital innovation. Furner's background, blending operational expertise with a history of leading change, positions him well to guide the company through this next phase.
Analysts see his rise as not just a succession but a signal. Walmart is betting on continuity and internal leadership rather than bringing in an outsider. Furner's deep roots and long record of execution offer stability, while also giving the board confidence that he can steer Walmart into its next chapter of growth.
In short, Furner's promotion isn't just a passing of the torch. It's a bet on Walmart's future: one built on its heritage but powered by innovation.
