Top logistics exec at Walmart U.S. to retire in January

Chris Sultemeier, executive vice president of logistics for Walmart U.S., will retire Jan. 31 – the end of the company’s fiscal year. The announcement was made by Wal-Mart Stores CEO Doug McMillon at the retailer’s annual Veteran’s Day event held Friday at the corporate headquarters.

Since 2012, Sultemeier has been responsible for all distribution centers and fulfillment centers as well as all domestic and global ocean transportation functions. Prior to that he was senior vice president of transportation services with responsibility for the retailer’s domestic transportation, the private fleet global transportation.

He joined Walmart in 1989 working in various roles of Walmart and Sam’s Club in logistics and merchandising. There has been no word from Walmart on who will replace Sultemeier next year.

Prior to joining Walmart he served as a U.S. Army Captain and is a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point with a degree in mechanical engineering. He service on boards includes the University of Arkansas Supply Chain Center and the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce.

Sultemeier took the stage at Friday’s event to interview retired Brigadier General Anne MacDonald, who was a former West Point cadet. MacDonald said she grew up an Army brat and was recruited to be among the first female class of cadets at West Point 40 years ago. She described the experience as difficult on many levels, but said the lessons learned there helped to shape who she is today.

“I loved putting on that uniform everyday through 30 years of active service. But you can’t keep it on forever,” MacDonald said.

Aside from reaching Brigadier General status, MacDonald holds several certifications in military air assault and is a former helicopter pilot with a military combat unit.

MacDonald said being part of the first class of female cadets at West Point was eye opening. After only accepting men since 1802, her guidance counselor in 1976 encouraged her to apply given her family’s military background.

“I thought they wanted me, but when I got there it was not very welcoming to say the least … it was hard to be accepted but we hung in there and it was worth it,” she said.

Her advice to veterans and civilians is keep pushing toward goals, saying there will be falls, but remember to fall forward so that it’s easier pick yourself up and continue.