Asda vet Ibbotson appointed SVP for Walmart U.S.

Wal-Mart Stores on Thursday confirmed the appointment of Mark Ibbotson to the role of SVP, innovations for Walmart U.S.

Ibbotson comes to Walmart's U.S. division from its Asda affiliate in the United Kingdom, where he served as chief operations officer. At Walmart U.S., he will report to another Asda veteran, COO Judith McKenna, who was promoted to her role in December.

In his new role, Ibbotson will be responsible for simplifying and improving day-to-day store operations and processes while helping develop new and innovative ways to improve business. Jeff McAllister had previously served that same role. It was not immediately clear whether McAllister had been reassigned.

CONNECT WITH SN ON FACEBOOK

Like the Supermarket News page for updates throughout the day.

At Asda, Ibbotson was responsible for the operation of more than 590 stores and helped ensure a consistent focus on the needs of its store managers, the company said. He joined the company in 2004 and has held a variety of roles in operations.  Walmart awarded Ibbotson with its Sam Walton Entrepreneur Award in 2013 because of his work on the "We Operate 4 Less" cost-efficiency program and for spearheading Asda’s growth in grocery home shopping.

Walmart said Ibbotson would relocate to the U.S. in coming weeks.

Suggested Categories	More from Supermarket News
Latest News Top 75 Retailers & Wholesalers Top 50 Small Chains & Independents Top 25 Global Retailers Power 50	SN Photo Galleries Videos Industry Voices SN Viewpoints Total Access Event Coverage