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Walmart CEO Doug McMillon is retiring after more than a decade. Learn how his leadership shaped the company and what John Furner’s promotion means for Walmart’s future.
A Big Announcement at Walmart
Walmart has announced that CEO Doug McMillon will retire next year, marking the end of an important chapter for the retail giant. McMillon, who has been with the company for decades, will step down on February 1, 2026.
Taking over as the new CEO is John Furner, the current head of Walmart U.S. Both leaders share something rare in today’s corporate world — they started their careers as hourly associates and rose through the ranks.
How McMillon Rebuilt Walmart for the Modern Age
Over the past ten years, McMillon guided Walmart through a rapidly changing retail environment. While other companies struggled with tariffs, inflation and declining consumer confidence, Walmart used its strong supply chain and massive grocery network to stay ahead.
Under McMillon, the company made some of its biggest strategic moves:
- Expanded ecommerce operations to compete directly with Amazon
- Built Walmart+ into a growing subscription service
- Strengthened logistics to keep prices low for all customers
- Attracted high-income shoppers, one of the fastest-growing groups for the brand
McMillon also wasn’t afraid to make difficult decisions. After the El Paso shooting, Walmart stopped selling certain types of ammunition and discouraged open carry inside stores. He openly criticized the Capitol insurrection and spoke against tariffs that hurt American shoppers.
Not everything worked perfectly. The $3 billion Jet.com acquisition failed to deliver long-term value, and several upscale clothing moves didn’t connect with Walmart’s core shoppers. Yet despite these setbacks, Walmart’s stock grew nearly 300% during his time as CEO.
Comparing Leadership Styles: McMillon vs. Furner
| Category | Doug McMillon | John Furner |
|---|---|---|
| Career Beginning | Store associate | Hourly associate |
| Known For | Digital expansion & bold policy steps | Ground-level operations & associate development |
| Major Focus | Competing with Amazon, Walmart+ growth | Store efficiency, innovation & people-first leadership |
| Key Challenge | Jet.com, upscale fashion acquisitions | To be defined as CEO |
What John Furner Brings to Walmart’s Future
John Furner has led 4,600 Walmart U.S. stores since 2019. His work has focused on improving store performance, advancing digital tools and creating better development opportunities for associates. He also brings international experience from roles at Sam’s Club and Walmart China.
Walmart has credited him with strong operational excellence — something that will be essential as the company navigates new retail challenges.
McMillon isn’t leaving completely, though. He will stay on Walmart’s board until next June and continue advising Furner through fiscal year 2027, ensuring a smooth and steady transition.
A New Chapter Begins
Doug McMillon leaves behind a legacy of growth, bold decisions and major changes that helped Walmart stay competitive in a shifting retail landscape. As John Furner steps into the role of CEO, Walmart enters a new chapter filled with opportunity, innovation and continued transformation.
