McLay named president of Sam's Club

Kathryn McLay has been named president and CEO of Walmart’s Sam’s club division, filling a position previously held by John Furner who was elevated to the role of president and CEO of Walmart U.S. in early October. 

McLay becomes the second female executive to lead Sam’s Club after Rosalind Brewer held the role prior to Furner. She has led Walmart’s small-format grocery group since February 2019 as executive vice president of Walmart U.S. Neighborhood Markets.

She joined the company in April 2015 as vice president of U.S. finance and strategy and was promoted to senior vice president of the U.S. supply chain in December 2015. Prior to Walmart, McLay spent 14 years with Australian retailer Woolworths where she held a variety of roles in strategy, finance and supply chain.

"Kath has a track record of success in every role she has taken on," said Doug McMillon, president and CEO of Walmart Inc. "Her ability to deliver results today, develop a vision for the future and lead the change necessary to achieve it is compelling. She is curious and courageous. Kath builds trust and is a servant leader. She understands the details of retail given her audit, supply chain and operational experience."

In 2017, Sam’s Club revamped its private brands by streamlining 21 previous Sam’s Club private brands including Simply Right, Bakers & Chefs and Daily Chef into Member’s Mark, a brand the warehouse club chain touts as having strong equity.

Mike Troy is editorial director for EnsembleIQ's Grocery Group.