Walmart reshuffles leadership with new US COO appointment

Anabelle Colaco
20 Jul 2026, 02:17 GMT+10

Walmart said on July 17 that Kieran Shanahan, chief operating officer of its U.S. operations, is leaving the company and will be succeeded by Kyle Kinnard, the current chief operating officer of its international division
Kinnard has been with Walmart for more than 25 years, serving in several senior leadership roles, including executive vice president of health and wellness for Walmart U.S.
The leadership change follows the departures in May of Sam's Club Chief Operating Officer Tom Ward and U.S. store operations chief Cedric Clark

BENTONVILLE, Arkansas: Walmart said on July 17 that Kieran Shanahan, chief operating officer of its U.S. operations, is leaving the company and will be succeeded by Kyle Kinnard, the current chief operating officer of its international division, as the retailer continues a broader management reshuffle under Chief Executive Officer John Furner.

Kinnard has been with Walmart for more than 25 years, serving in several senior leadership roles, including executive vice president of health and wellness for Walmart U.S., according to an internal memo seen by Reuters.

The leadership change follows the departures in May of Sam's Club Chief Operating Officer Tom Ward and U.S. store operations chief Cedric Clark. Around the same time, Walmart named David Guggina and Chris Nicholas as chief executives of its domestic and international operations, respectively.

The retailer also promoted Juan Galarraga to oversee its international businesses in Latin America.

Under Furner, Walmart has pursued a technology-focused strategy to expand its marketplace and delivery businesses while attracting higher-income shoppers. The company also eliminated 1,000 roles in May.

Walmart reiterated its conservative annual sales and profit forecasts in May amid softer consumer spending. Earlier this month, it also said it would cut prices on a range of summer barbecue staples, including meat, chips and soda.