Walmart's Long-Time Leader to Step Down, John Furner Taking the Helm
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the retail industry, Doug McMillon is set to retire as CEO of Walmart after nearly two decades at the helm. The 59-year-old leader, who joined the company in 1984, will step down in early 2026 and be succeeded by John Furner.
Furner, a veteran Walmart executive with over three decades of experience, has been preparing for this moment. He will assume the role in February and is expected to navigate the retailer through a period of significant transformation, driven by the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI).
Under McMillon's leadership, Walmart underwent a radical transformation, transforming itself from a traditional brick-and-mortar retailer into an e-commerce powerhouse. The company invested heavily in digital technology, acquiring Jet.com for $3 billion in 2016 and ramping up its online shopping capabilities.
One of McMillon's most significant achievements was his focus on improving working conditions and wages for Walmart employees. He launched a $2.7 billion plan to boost wages and development programs, resulting in a 93% increase in starting wages and the participation of 3.5 million associates in skills training initiatives.
However, Walmart is facing numerous challenges, including rising costs due to tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. McMillon has acknowledged that the company must adapt to these changes and invest in AI-driven solutions to remain competitive.
"Serving as Walmart's CEO has been a great honor and I'm thankful to our Board and the Walton family for the opportunity," said McMillon in a statement. "I have no doubt that John Furner is uniquely capable of leading the company through this next A.I.-driven transformation."
Furner, 51, takes over at a critical juncture for Walmart. The retailer must navigate the impact of AI on its workforce and supply chain, while also navigating the volatile economic environment.
For Furner, it's a new chapter in his long career with Walmart. He has spent decades working alongside McMillon, rising through the ranks to become CEO of Walmart U.S. before taking over as CEO of the entire company.
The transition marks a significant moment for Walmart, which is now embarking on its sixth tenure under a new CEO. The retailer's first store opened in 1962, and it has since grown into one of the world's largest retailers.
With McMillon stepping down, Furner will be tasked with guiding Walmart through this period of transformation. His success will depend on his ability to navigate the challenges ahead and drive growth for the company.
In a move that has sent shockwaves through the retail industry, Doug McMillon is set to retire as CEO of Walmart after nearly two decades at the helm. The 59-year-old leader, who joined the company in 1984, will step down in early 2026 and be succeeded by John Furner.
Furner, a veteran Walmart executive with over three decades of experience, has been preparing for this moment. He will assume the role in February and is expected to navigate the retailer through a period of significant transformation, driven by the increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI).
Under McMillon's leadership, Walmart underwent a radical transformation, transforming itself from a traditional brick-and-mortar retailer into an e-commerce powerhouse. The company invested heavily in digital technology, acquiring Jet.com for $3 billion in 2016 and ramping up its online shopping capabilities.
One of McMillon's most significant achievements was his focus on improving working conditions and wages for Walmart employees. He launched a $2.7 billion plan to boost wages and development programs, resulting in a 93% increase in starting wages and the participation of 3.5 million associates in skills training initiatives.
However, Walmart is facing numerous challenges, including rising costs due to tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. McMillon has acknowledged that the company must adapt to these changes and invest in AI-driven solutions to remain competitive.
"Serving as Walmart's CEO has been a great honor and I'm thankful to our Board and the Walton family for the opportunity," said McMillon in a statement. "I have no doubt that John Furner is uniquely capable of leading the company through this next A.I.-driven transformation."
Furner, 51, takes over at a critical juncture for Walmart. The retailer must navigate the impact of AI on its workforce and supply chain, while also navigating the volatile economic environment.
For Furner, it's a new chapter in his long career with Walmart. He has spent decades working alongside McMillon, rising through the ranks to become CEO of Walmart U.S. before taking over as CEO of the entire company.
The transition marks a significant moment for Walmart, which is now embarking on its sixth tenure under a new CEO. The retailer's first store opened in 1962, and it has since grown into one of the world's largest retailers.
With McMillon stepping down, Furner will be tasked with guiding Walmart through this period of transformation. His success will depend on his ability to navigate the challenges ahead and drive growth for the company.
, I'm a bit surprised he's not getting some kinda award for all he accomplished during his nearly two decades at the helm - transforming Walmart into an e-commerce powerhouse was no easy feat 
, and on top of that, he made huge strides in improving working conditions and wages for Walmart employees 
. anyway, John Furner is taking over and I'm curious to see how he'll navigate the impact of AI on Walmart's workforce and supply chain 
, it's definitely a new chapter for the company!
. He's been working with McMillon for ages, so he knows what's expected of him. The thing is, Walmart has a lot on its plate right now - AI and tariffs and stuff 
. It's gonna be tough for Furner to make a big impact in his first year or two, but I guess we'll just have to wait and see how it all plays out 
.