BIO:
- Name: Kathryn McLay
- Title/Position: President & CEO, Walmart International
- Industry: Retail, Supply Chain, Global Business
- Location: Bentonville, Arkansas, USA
- Age: Born in 1974 (Age 51 as of 2025)
- Net Worth: Estimated $37.9 million (as of September 2024)
Kathryn McLay” by Walmart Inc., via Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0
Kathryn McLay’s Story
Kathryn McLay’s rise from a teenage deli worker in Australia to leading Walmart’s $100 billion international division is a story of grit, strategy, and bold leadership.
She started in accounting at Deloitte and at Woolworths, one of Australia’s largest retailers, where she honed her skills in supply chain, finance, and operations.
In 2015, McLay moved to the U.S. to join Walmart as Vice President of U.S. Finance & Strategy. Her career took a turn as she spread her wings into leadership, strategy, and transformation. She quickly climbed the ranks, taking on roles in supply chain transformation and leading Walmart’s Neighborhood Markets.
By November 2019, she was named CEO of Sam’s Club, a division of Walmart Inc., where she revitalized the brand with tech-forward initiatives and record-breaking membership growth.
In August 2023, McLay was promoted to President and CEO of Walmart International. She now oversees 500,000 associates across 18 countries, serving over 80 million customers weekly. She was named as one of Fortune’s Most Powerful Women in 2024.
Career Highlights
Key Milestones:
- 2001: Began formal retail career at Woolworths Australia.
- 2015: Joined Walmart as Vice President of U.S. Finance & Strategy.
- 2016: Promoted to Senior Vice President, U.S. Supply Chain.
- 2019: Appointed CEO of Sam’s Club.
- 2023: Named President & CEO of Walmart International.
Achievements:
- Led Sam’s Club to a 9% revenue increase and 16% operating income growth during the pandemic.
- Introduced innovative shopping solutions, including contactless concierge services.
- Recognized as one of Fortune’s Most Powerful Women in 2024.
- Serves on the Northwest Arkansas Regional Board of Make-A-Wish Mid-South.
Kathryn McLay Net Worth
Kathryn McLay’s estimated net worth is $37.9 million as of September 2024. This wealth primarily stems from her executive compensation and stock holdings at Walmart Inc. Her compensation package has included a base salary, performance-based bonuses, and substantial stock awards.
Kathryn McLay in the News
- August 2023: Promoted to lead Walmart International, overseeing operations in 18 countries.
- 2024: Ranked among Fortune’s Most Powerful Women for her leadership at Walmart.
- 2020: Implemented innovative shopping solutions at Sam’s Club during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Quotes by Kathryn McLay
“Stop seeking approval for your accomplishments and begin focusing on doing the best job you could for your company. You will see the magic! Your career begins to take off.”
“I have been fortunate to have several outstanding sponsors/mentors in my career, male and female and it’s important to seek out mentors and then also find opportunities to repay others with the service,” she said to TBP.
“I think we need to open up the perspective of what leadership looks like. I don’t think I’m a traditional leader.. I’m just going to be me.”
FAQs: Most Asked Questions About Kathryn McLay
Has Walmart ever had a female CEO?
While Walmart Inc. has not had a female CEO, its divisions, including Sam’s Club and Walmart International, have been led by women like Kathryn McLay.
Is Kathryn McLay the CEO of Sam’s Club?
No, as of August 2023, Kathryn McLay serves as the President and CEO of Walmart International.
How much does the Walmart CEO make?
While specific figures for the Walmart CEO are not provided here, top executives at Walmart, including McLay during her tenure at Sam’s Club, have earned multi-million-dollar compensation packages.
Who is Kathryn McLay’s husband?
Kathryn McLay is married to Jason McLay. They reside in Bentonville, Arkansas, with their three children.
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