Davis named Walmart's global consumer insights chief

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Walmart has named Cindy Davis EVP of its global consumer insights business unit created two weeks ago as part of a larger corporate restructuring.

Davis, who joined Walmart in 2007 and previously served as EVP membership and marketing for Sam’s Club, will continue to report to Sam’s Club president and CEO Brian Cornell, although she will be responsible for understanding broad consumer trends worldwide and for creating advanced analytical tools to support the business.

“Cindy is uniquely suited to lead the development of our new world-class global customer insights team for Walmart,” Cornell said. “She is a leader that understands the importance of putting the customer at the center of everything we do and the power insights can have on business decision-making. She has demonstrated an ability to build teams and capabilities that deliver business performance today while preparing us to capitalize on our business potential for the future.”

Prior to Sam’s Club, Davis spent more than 20 years with such companies as Harrah’s Entertainment, Starwood and Promus Hotels, Pizza Hut, BBDO, TracyLocke and Rapp Collins Worldwide.

"One of the greatest benefits of being a global organization is the opportunity to share best practices and talent across each of our divisions and around the world,” Davis said. “Understanding customer insights enables us to focus on what our customers want, and [to] make informed decisions throughout the organization — bringing shoppers the products, brands and services they want in every country we serve.”

The appointment of Davis follows creation of the new global insight unit two weeks ago, which essentially combines existing insights teams headed by Pam Whiteside, VP customer insights for Walmart; Linda Vytlacil, VP member insights and innovations for Sam’s Club; and Jim Scantlin, a senior director in information systems.