CANADA - A four-part leadership transition is underway under the roof of Walmart Canada as the retailer lays the foundation for future strategic initiatives. The retailer announced that Mohammed Abdool-Samad has joined as Chief Financial Officer; John Bayliss has been named Chief Administration Officer; Michon Williams has been named Chief Technology Officer; and Joe Schrauder has accepted the role of Vice President, Operations and Chief of Staff to the CEO.
Abdool-Samad leads the finance, strategic sourcing, audit, commercial finance, and business performance management functions at Walmart Canada. Prior to his new role, he served as Group Chief Financial Officer at Walmart’s Massmart business in South Africa, joining the company in 2019.
Bayliss is taking on a new leadership role as the chain’s Chief Administration Officer.
As a release explained, Bayliss’ deep knowledge of the Canadian business, ability to translate business strategy into enterprise operational plans, and his passion for continuous improvement will be a tremendous asset as Walmart Canada launches this new function. The change will bring together Technology, Format Development, Real Estate, Transformation Services, Corporate Strategy, and a new Data function.
As Chief Technology Officer, Williams will lead the Internal Product Management and the Technology Infrastructure teams.
Williams previously held the role of VP, Technology (Product and Delivery) at Walmart Canada. Prior to that, Williams had a long-standing career in technology leadership and online banking development in financial services.
Joe Schrauder has also accepted a new role, appointed as Vice President, Operations and Chief of Staff to the CEO.
Schrauder will lead the Project Management Office and assume responsibility for the Central Operations, and the Future Store Operating teams, creating a greater connection between corporate priorities and seamless implementation of strategies in store.
Click here to read more about each of the new leaders.
Gonzalo Gebara, President and Chief Executive Officer, Walmart Canada, commented on the leadership transition.
“We are a people-led, tech-powered business and these updates to our executive team help position us to improve how customers are able to shop with us,” said Gebara. “Our best-in-class Canadian leadership team is pushing our business forward on the path to modernize retail.”
Congratulations to the formidable Walmart Canada team!
