Walmart announces international senior management changes

Bentonville, Ark.-based Wal-Mart Stores Inc. announced a series of leadership moves in its International division.

Andy Clarke, president and CEO at Asda, is stepping down. Clarke has spent more than 20 years with Asda, the last six as CEO. He has been a key contributor to Walmart’s success in the UK, one of the world’s most competitive retail markets. Clarke and his leadership team have played a key role in several innovations in the marketplace, such as grocery home delivery and pickup. He has also served as a strong leader for the business during a time of increased competition and heightened customer expectations, the retailer said.

Clarke will remain with the company until the end of July, at which point he will serve as an advisor for the remainder of 2016. He will also retain his current role as Asda’s representative in certain functions, namely as president of the IGD, a research and training charity which provides information and best practice to the global food and grocery industry, Walmart said.

With Andy Clarke's departure, Sean Clarke will return to the UK and Asda, as president and CEO, effective July 11. Most recently, Sean Clarke served as president and CEO of Walmart China, distinguishing himself by leading growth in a critical market. Sean Clarke is one of Walmart’s most experienced executives, with a Walmart career that includes extensive experience abroad, including Walmart Japan, Walmart Canada and Asda, where he began his retail career in 1996. Sean Clarke's leadership will allow Asda to build upon the momentum of Project Renewal and reposition the business in a very competitive market place, Walmart said.

Walmart also confirmed that Roger Burnley will be named deputy CEO and chief operating officer of Asda when he rejoins the business in October. Roger will be a strong support to Sean Clarke, having held a variety of senior leadership positions across commercial and operational functions of UK retail businesses. He worked at Asda between 1996 and 2002 and was part of the core team responsible for integrating Asda into Walmart following its acquisition in 1999.

With this move, Dirk Van De Berghe, currently president and CEO, Walmart Canada, will take over leadership of the Walmart China business, effective Aug. 22, pending work authorization. In addition, Dirk will also serve as regional president for the retailer's Asia business, including Walmart Japan. At Walmart Canada, Dirk’s depth of experience allowed Walmart to strengthen its growing food business in the market and complement a highly-successful general merchandise operation. Walmart said it will announce a new leader for Walmart Canada shortly. This move will allow Scott Price, currently president and CEO, Walmart Asia, to focus exclusively on his additional role as chief administrative officer, Walmart International.