Walmart’s Vaunted Turnaround Artist Bolts to Air New Zealand
- Head of U.S. business replaced by top executive for Sam’s Club
- Analyst says Foran’s departure is ‘big blow’ for the retailer
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Walmart Inc.’s Greg Foran, the architect of the revival of its U.S. stores, is departing to run his native New Zealand’s flag carrier, leaving a big hole at the world’s largest retailer on the cusp of the holiday season.
John Furner, 45, was named to replace Foran, according to a statement. A close friend of Chief Executive Officer Doug McMillon, Furner started working at Walmart as an hourly associate in 1993 and rose to lead Sam’s Club in 2017. He has international experience as well, previously running merchandising and marketing in China. The change will go into effect on Nov. 1.