Walmart Boss Stepping Down, Insider to Take Over

Nov 20, 2025

Walmart Inc. president and CEO Doug McMillon will retire in 2026, after 17 years with the world’s largest retailer.

“Serving as Walmart’s CEO has been a great honour and I’m thankful to our board and the Walton family for the opportunity,” says McMillon. “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.”

McMillon has been at the helm of Walmart since 2014. Previous to that, he was president and CEO of Walmart International, joining the company in February 2009 from Sam’s Club.

John Furner (left) with Doug McMillon (right).

“Over more than a decade as CEO, Doug led a comprehensive transformation by investing in our associates, advancing our digital and e-commerce capabilities, and modernizing our supply chain, resulting in sustained, robust financial performance,” says Greg Penner, chair of Walmart Inc. “He leaves Walmart stronger, more innovative and better aligned with our purpose to help people save money and live better.”

John Furner will succeed McMillon, effective Feb. 1. 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.

“John is the right leader to guide Walmart into our next chapter of growth and transformation,” says Penner. “After being with us for over 30 years in a variety of roles, John understands every dimension of our business — from the sales floor to global strategy. (His) 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.”

As the company has done with previous CEO transitions, McMillon will stay on the board of directors until June, in addition to staying on as an advisor to Furner through fiscal year 2027. The company plans to make an announcement on Furner’s successor as CEO of Walmart U.S. before the end of the year.

“I’m grateful to Doug for his leadership and mentorship and the foundation that is built for our future,” says Furner. “As we enter a new retail era fuelled 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.”