Wal-Mart Names Instagram Co-founder To Board Of Directors

Wal-Mart Stores announced Monday (Sept. 29) that Instagram co-founder Kevin Systrom has joined its board of directors.

Systrom started as a board member on Sept. 26. He becomes the 15th member of the board and will also serve as a member of the company’s Technology and eCommerce Committee and its Compensation, Nominating and Governance Committee.

“Kevin’s entrepreneurial background and his technical and digital expertise will be invaluable as we further connect with customers and deploy new capabilities through e-commerce and mobile channels,” said Walmart Chairman Rob Walton. “Walmart is investing in e-commerce capabilities through talent, technology and fulfillment. Kevin’s passion and deep knowledge of social media align with our focus to engage customers through our digital and physical channels.”

Systrom, 30, is best known as CEO and co-founder of Instagram, the photo-and-video sharing social networking service. Founded in 2010, Instagram was acquired by Facebook in August 2012. Systrom is currently CEO of Instagram, where he is responsible for its day-to-day operations and has overseen its growth to more than 200 million monthly active accounts.

A native of Massachusetts, Systrom holds a B.S. in management science and engineering from Stanford University.

“Walmart has had a profound impact as a global leader in retail,” Systrom said. “It’s an honor to join the Walmart Board and have an opportunity to help provide more convenient and flexible ways for people to shop.”