Wal-Mart Appoints Its China Head Sean Clarke As CEO Of Asda

(RTTNews) - Wal-Mart Stores Inc. (WMT) announced a series of leadership moves in its International division.

Andy Clarke, President and Chief Executive Officer at Asda, has decided to step aside from his role with the company. Over more than 20 years with Asda, and the last six as CEO, Andy has been a key contributor to Walmart's success in the U.K.

With Andy's departure Sean Clarke will return to Asda, as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective July 11. Most recently, Sean served in the same role with Walmart China.

Andy will remain with the business 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 also confirmed that Roger Burnley will be named deputy CEO and chief operating officer, Asda when he rejoins the business in October 2016. 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.

With this move Dirk Van De Berghe, currently President and Chief Executive Officer, Walmart Canada will take over leadership of the Walmart China business, effective August 22 pending work authorization. In addition, Dirk will also serve as Regional President for our Asia business, including Walmart Japan. Walmart will announce a new leader for Walmart Canada shortly.

This move will allow Scott Price, currently President and Chief Executive Officer - Walmart Asia to focus exclusively on his additional role as Chief Administrative Officer - Walmart International.