Wal-Mart Stores has promoted Judith McKenna to COO of Walmart U.S. McKenna succeeds Gisel Ruiz, who has been promoted to EVP of Walmart’s International People Division. Both position changes are effective immediately.
McKenna will continue to report directly to Greg Foran, President and CEO of Walmart U.S. As COO, McKenna will lead a team of 1.3 million associates and also will continue to lead the retailer’s small format stores, development of new formats, expansion of Walmart services and the integration of digital commerce into existing U.S. stores.
McKenna has been with Walmart for nearly 20 years, previously serving as the CFO and COO of UK-based Asda, a subsidiary of Walmart International. She was promoted to Walmart International to take on the role of EVP of Strategy and International Development, and has most recently served as Chief Development Officer for Walmart U.S.
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Ruiz will report to David Cheesewright, President and CEO of Walmart International. Ruiz will be serve as a member of Cheesewright’s leadership team and the Walmart Global People leadership team. She will be responsible for driving Walmart’s global human resources strategy. Ruiz began her career at Walmart as a management trainee and has since worked in roles such as labor relations, operations and human resources.
“Gisel is an inspirational leader who has consistently contributed to Walmart’s growth and success throughout her 22 years with the company,” said Cheesewright. “Her proven track record and unwavering commitment to our associates make her the perfect choice for this new role. The expertise and leadership that Gisel brings are needed as we take our International Division to the next level.”
