Steve Bratspies, WalMart
Steve Bratspies, new chief merchandising officer for Wal-Mart’s U.S. business

BENTONVILLE, ARK. — Steve Bratspies has been named chief merchandising officer for Wal-Mart’s U.S. business, effective Oct. 19. In his new role with the company, Mr. Bratspies will be responsible for all merchandise categories across more than 4,500 stores. Most recently, he was executive vice-president of food for the U.S. division, where he overhauled Wal-Mart’s grocery strategy with a focus on improving its fresh offering and expanding private brand and global sourcing capabilities.

Mr. Bratspies joined Wal-Mart in 2005 and has served in several leadership roles in marketing, dry grocery and general merchandise. Previously, he was chief marketing officer for Specialty Brands and has held roles in finance, new ventures and marketing at PepsiCo’s Frito-Lay division. He also has served in consulting positions with A.T. Kearney and Andersen Consulting.

“Steve is a true leader and an example of the rich talent that exists within the merchandise organization,” said Greg Foran, president and chief executive officer, Wal-Mart U.S. “His outstanding merchandising instincts and commitment to innovation and price leadership will challenge the status quo to serve our customers better.”

Charles Redfield, WalMart
Charles Redfield
Charles Redfield, executive vice-president of merchandising at Sam’s Club, will succeed Mr. Bratspies as executive vice-president of food for Wal-Mart U.S. Mr. Redfield began his career at Sam’s Club in 1988 as a cashier and has advanced to several operational and merchandising leadership roles. He will be succeeded in his current position by John Furner, who most recently was chief merchandising and marketing officer at Wal-Mart China.