Venessa Yates Takes Helm as President and CEO of Walmart Canada

Walmart Canada has a new leader in Venessa Yates, who's stepping up to drive the company's growth and transformation. She brings an impressive background from Walmart+ and other major retailers, promising an exciting future for the organization. The transition also marks the departure of long-time leader Gonzalo Gebara, who's completed a remarkable 25-year journey with the company. With Yates at the helm and Steve Schrobilgen joining as COO, Walmart Canada is positioning itself for continued success in the competitive retail market.

"The Canadian business, with its 100,000 associates and impressive 30-year history, has always been a source of pride." - Venessa Yates

by PRN January 21, 2025 86 views

MISSISSAUGA, ON, Jan. 21: Walmart Canada has announced the appointment of Venessa Yates as its new President and Chief Executive Officer.

Key Points

1. Venessa Yates appointed as new President and CEO of Walmart Canada

2. Succeeding Gonzalo Gebara after his 25-year tenure

3. Brings extensive retail leadership experience across multiple countries

4. Steve Schrobilgen joins as Chief Operating Officer

This transition, pending necessary authorizations, marks a significant step in the company's growth strategy as it aims to solidify its position as a leading omnichannel retailer in Canada. A Proven Leader in Retail

Guilherme Loureiro, Regional CEO of Walmart Canada, Chile, Mexico, and Central America, expressed confidence in Yates's capabilities. "Venessa is a tremendous retail leader with experience in multiple countries and functions. She is the right person to continue to drive Walmart Canada's growth trajectory and its transformation," he stated.

Yates has been with Walmart since 2016, most recently serving as the Senior Vice President and General Manager of Walmart+, the company's membership program. Her extensive background includes various leadership roles at notable retailers such as Woolworths and ALDI Stores.

Excitement for the Future

In her statement, Yates shared her enthusiasm about joining the Canadian team. "The Canadian business, with its 100,000 associates and impressive 30-year history, has always been a source of pride. We're currently in growth mode and I'm excited about our future," she remarked.

Farewell to Gonzalo Gebara

The announcement comes as Walmart Canada prepares to bid farewell to Gonzalo Gebara, the current President and CEO. After a remarkable 25-year career with the company, Gebara will leave at the end of February to return to Argentina for family reasons and other pursuits. Loureiro thanked him for his dedication, noting his essential role in accelerating Walmart Canada's transformation into a leading omnichannel retailer.

New Leadership Addition: Steve Schrobilgen

Alongside Yates's appointment, Walmart Canada welcomes Steve Schrobilgen as Chief Operating Officer, End to End. Schrobilgen will oversee operations, supply chain, real estate, and format, also pending authorizations. His impressive 35-year career with Sam's Club and Walmart has equipped him with exceptional leadership and operational expertise.

Since joining Walmart U.S. in 2023, Schrobilgen has focused on operational excellence and team development while achieving financial results across various business areas.

About Walmart Canada

Walmart Canada operates over 400 stores nationwide, serving 1.5 million customers daily. The company's flagship online store, Walmart.ca, attracts more than 1.5 million visitors each day. With over 100,000 associates, Walmart Canada is one of the largest employers in the country and ranks among Canada's top 10 most influential brands. The company is also committed to philanthropy, having raised and donated over $750 million to Canadian charities since 1994.

For more information, visit walmartcanada.ca.

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