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Veteran executive John Furner prepares to take over as Walmart’s next CEO, marking a generational shift for the retail giant.
Longtime Walmart veteran John Furner to take the helm in 2026 as the retail giant enters a new era of innovation and global growth
Walmart CEO Doug McMillon is set to retire after more than a decade leading the world’s largest private employer, the company announced on Friday. The move marks the end of a remarkable era for the 59-year-old retail leader, who began his journey with Walmart in 1984 and rose through the ranks to guide the company through some of its most transformative years.
John Furner, 51, a seasoned Walmart executive who started as a store associate in 1993, will succeed McMillon as president and CEO on February 1, 2026. Furner, who most recently led Walmart’s U.S. business—overseeing more than 4,600 stores and the company’s largest operating segment—has been elected to the board of directors effective immediately.
McMillon’s tenure as CEO has been marked by sweeping investments in frontline workers, groundbreaking strides in e-commerce, and major enhancements to the retailer’s global supply chain. Greg Penner, chairman of Walmart, praised his leadership: “He leaves Walmart stronger, more innovative, and better aligned with our purpose to help people save money and live better.”
Shares of Walmart dipped 2.8% in premarket trading following the announcement. While the company declined to comment on McMillon’s reasons for retiring, he is expected to address the transition on the upcoming investor call next Thursday.
McMillon will remain on Walmart’s board until the 2026 annual shareholder meeting and will continue advising Furner through fiscal year 2027, ensuring a smooth handover during a pivotal time for the retail powerhouse.
Furner brings more than 30 years of experience to his new role, having served in various leadership positions across multiple countries and previously heading Sam’s Club U.S. His deep roots in the company mirror McMillon’s own trajectory—and even include a family legacy, with his father also serving as a Walmart executive.
As Walmart prepares for Furner’s leadership, anticipation is building around the company’s search for its next CEO of Walmart U.S., expected to be announced by the end of fiscal 2026.
McMillon’s departure marks the close of a defining chapter for Walmart, and the beginning of a new era shaped by one of its most dedicated homegrown leaders.
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