Walmart is hiring. The world’s biggest retailer is moving executives among its International divisions and also looking for a new CEO for Walmart Canada.
Walmart Canada’s CEO, Dirk Van den Berghe, is being reassigned to China. Van den Berghe, who is credited with strengthening Walmart Canada’s food business, will also serve as Regional President for the retailer’s Asia business, including Walmart Japan.
Andy Clarke, President and CEO at Walmart subsidiary Asda is stepping down. Clarke and his leadership team successfully introduced UK grocery home delivery and pickup at Asda but the retailer has struggled against discount grocers like Aldi and German chain Lidl, which have gained market share in recent years. Walmart is hoping a leadership shakeup at its UK grocery business will help reposition the brand as a more competitive player.
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Sean Clarke, the head of Walmart’s China division, will take over as CEO of the company’s UK grocery business. Clarke started his career at Asda in 1996 before moving into positions with the retailer’s Canada and Japan divisions. Walmart also confirmed that Roger Burnley will be named deputy CEO and COO of Asda when he rejoins the business in October 2016.
“Sean is one of our most experienced global executives, and through his leadership we will build upon the momentum of Project Renewal to reposition Asda in a very competitive marketplace,” said David Cheesewright, CEO of Walmart International in a statement.
Walmart will announce a new leader for Walmart Canada shortly.
