Bill Simon Walmart US

Wal-Mart stores Inc. has announced that group vice-chairman Eduardo Castro-Wright is to leave his role as president and CEO of the retail giant's US arm, to take up a new role as president and CEO of Global.com and Global Sourcing.

As a result, the group has appointed Bill Simon to replace Mr Castro-Wright at the head of Walmart US, reporting directly to Wal-Mart Stores Inc. president and CEO Mike Duke.

'As we continue to become a truly global company and address the business challenges of a rapidly changing world, it is clear that Global.com and Global Sourcing are critical to our future growth and success,' said Mr Duke. 'We are fortunate to have someone as strategic and knowledgeable as Eduardo leading the teams to drive these initiatives forward at a faster pace.

'Appointing him to this role demonstrates our commitment and the importance we assign to these areas and to building the next generation Walmart, while also allowing Eduardo to relocate to California to be with his family during his wife's illness,' he added.

Mr Duke said that Simon was a 'strong leader' who had made positive differences at the group, while Mr Simon himself said that he was 'honoured' to take on his new role.