With only one day under his belt in his new executive role, Sam’s Club’s newest CEO is jumping straight into his appointment with a new set of direction for the company. To further hone its services, John Furner has outlined three strategies for the company moving forward.
“I’m going to be focused on simplifying the business and thinking differently,” stated Furner in a post on Walmart’s website. “We have a lot of hard work and new opportunities ahead of us and each associate at Sam’s Club will play a role in getting us there. I’m thinking about it in terms of three big areas.”
Starting yesterday, Furner placed these facets at the forefront of Sam’s Club’s business endeavors, giving the following reasons for their selection in his own words:
“As I transition into this new role, I’m going to do a lot of listening, especially to the associates closest to our members. Like Sam said, ‘listen to everyone in your company,’” Furner continued.
Originally starting with Sams’ Club’s parent in 1993, Furner stated that Walmart has always been in his blood. Furner’s father also worked for Walmart, and Furner himself grew to love the company when his family received support from Walmart after his mother grew ill.
Furner also credited his experience as Walmart’s Chief Merchandising and Marketing Officer in China for part of his professional gumption that led him to his current leadership position.
“I feel like I’ve learned the business of Walmart U.S., Sam’s Club, and Walmart International from the bottom up,” said Furner.
How will these strategies impact the chain in the buy-side sector? Deli Market News will continue to report.