Walmart US chief operating officer Judith McKenna has been promoted to head up the parent company's international division, having started her career with the company in 1996 at U.K. operation Asda. 

Judith McKenna

McKenna will become CEO of Walmart International - Wal-Mart Stores Inc's (NYSE: WMT) second-largest operating segment - on on Feb. 1, 2018 after David Cheesewright retires from the role.

She will report to Walmart president and CEO Doug McMillon.

"I’ve had the pleasure to work with Judith for many years and have seen first-hand her ability to lead strategic change, build relationships with our associates and strengthen our business," McMillon said.

"It has been inspiring to see her personal growth and the results she’s driven over the years. Her integrity, high expectations and passion for the business and our associates will ensure our continued success in International."

She said being chosen to lead the division was truly an honor, and she couldn't think of a more exciting time to be in this part of the business.

"I look forward to building upon our progress to improve the experience for our customers and associates around the world," she said. 

McKenna started off with the company as chief operating officer and chief financial officer at Asda, and she also served as executive vice president of strategy and international development for Walmart International. 

There, she led several areas, including international strategy, real estate, mergers and acquisitions, integration, global format development and purchase leverage.

Upon moving to the Walmart U.S. division in April 2014, McKenna served as the business unit’s chief development officer, where she led the strategy, development and growth of Walmart’s small format business and the partnership with Walmart.com to integrate digital commerce into the physical store presence.

Several months later she was promoted to her expanded role as executive vice president and chief operating officer for Walmart U.S. with responsibilities for the company’s U.S. store operations, including more than 4,500 retail locations.

Walmart’s International division serves more than 100 million customers every week in more than 6,200 retail units, operating outside the United States with 55 banners in 27 countries.

Leadership transition

Current Walmart International CEO Cheesewright will remain with the company full time through March and then serve the company, on a limited basis, with specific projects for a longer period of time.

“During his 19 years with the company, David has served in a number of key leadership roles in our company. He has built a reputation as an insightful strategic thinker with a track record of delivering consistent, profitable growth," McMillon said.

"He has been instrumental in strengthening our business across the globe. He’s a passionate advocate for our people, culture and purpose around the world."

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