Walmart leadership shuffle sees Steve Bratspies exit as chief merchant

By

Gabriella Lacombe

Published
Jan 22, 2020

Walmart Inc., the world's largest retailer, is shaking up its executive suite, beginning with the news that its chief merchant, Steve Bratspies, is leaving the mega retailer.

Bratspies began as chief merchandising officer in 2015, where he managed product selection and pricing in Walmart's U.S. stores. Prior to serving as CMO, he held the roles of executive vice president of general merchandise and senior vice president of dry grocery with Walmart, among other roles.  

Prior to joining the company, Bratspies served as chief marketing officer at Specialty Brands Inc., director of marketing at Frito Lay, and as a senior consultant at A.T. Kearney. 

According to industry reports, company veteran Scott McCall will replace Bratspies. McCall, who began his career with Walmart nearly 25 years ago, most recently served as a merchandising manager for entertainment, toys and seasonal goods.

Reports further announced that Dacona Smith, who most recently served as chief operating officer of Sam’s Club, will become COO of Walmart U.S. Prior to Smith taking on the role, it had been vacant since the former COO, Judith McKenna, was named head of Walmart’s international division in 2018. 

Bratspies exit marks the most recent member of Walmart's leadership team to leave the company, following the announcement that Bonobos founder Andy Dunn had left his position as Walmart's senior vice president of digital consumer brands in December.