Wal-Mart Continues to Shuffle Executives

BENTONVILLE, Ark. (AP) -- Wal-Mart Stores Inc. continued its shuffling among merchandising and marketing executives, announcing on Thursday that it will promote the top executive from its online subsidiary to head of domestic business strategy.

In his new role, Carter Cast will be in charge of strategic planning for Wal-Mart. His replacement at Walmart.com will be the subsidiary's chief marketing officer, Raul Vazquez. The changes are effective immediately.

Last month, John Fleming, who had been Wal-Mart's chief marketing officer, was named to a newly created position of chief merchandising officer to oversee changes in the way the discounter picks merchandise for high-growth areas. The moves come after the discounter stumbled last year in its drive to offer more fashionable apparel and other items.

As for Cast, who was hired by Walmart.com in 2000, he will take on a broader role, leading strategic planning initiatives. Working in several positions, Cast helped the online site grow and become profitable. Two years ago he became chief executive and helped Walmart.com become the No. 3 online seller in the country.

Vazquez joined Walmart.com in 2002. As chief executive he will help develop an expanded product line and integrate more product information with the online site, the company said.

Cast and Vazquez will both report to Eduardo Castro-Wright, Wal-Mart U.S division president and chief executive.

"The new appointments of Carter Cast and Raul Vazquez and their extensive expertise in the online retail environment uniquely positions Wal-Mart to build upon our strength and ability to provide a comprehensive, multi-channel experience for our customers," Castro-Wright said in a statement. He praised Cast's ability to lead and said Vazquez will help the online business "further leverage the Wal-Mart brand."

On the Net:

Wal-Mart: http://www.walmart.com

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