Food People: Wal-Mart, Carrefour, Nestle

Duke Named Wal-Mart Chief

In a surprise move, Wal-Mart announced that Michael Duke, head of the international division, will replace Lee Scott as CEO of the world’s largest retailer and the world’s largest grocer.

BusinessWeek described the move as a “victory lap” for Scott, in part because of the odd timing. It’s unusual for any retailer to make such a move on the eve of the holiday shopping season. Another reason is that Scott has had a very good year after a tenure that “had been marred by disappointing results and controversy,” as BusinessWeek put it. In other words, he wants to go out on a high note.

Scott will remain as chairman of the board’s executive committee and will serve as an adviser to Duke.

Duke has been with Wal-Mart for 13 years, working his way up though the logistics department, which is the backbone of Wal-Mart’s operations. He headed the international division’s 3,200 stores, which generated $100 billion in sales. Having pretty much saturated the United States with stores, the company is now focused on global expansion.

Two other candidates had been considered for the post: Eduardo Castro-Wright, president of the U.S. stores division; and C. Douglas McMillon, who heads up the Sam’s Club warehouse chain.

The company did not say who will replace Duke, but the buzz is that it will be McMillon. Wal-Mart will appoint the international division chief in January.

Carrefour Taps Nestle Exec

Lars Olofsson, who was passed over for the CEO spot at Nestle earlier this year, will take over as head of Carrefour, the world’s second-biggest retailer.

Olofsson had been Nestle’s point person on revamping the company’s European operations. He worked for Nestle for 30 years — including a four-year stint in France, which will help the Swedish national in his new job with the French retailer.

Some analysts, however, questioned the wisdom of Carrefour’s bringing in someone with no retail experience.

Olofsson replaces José-Luis Duran, who was booted under pressure from investors who want major changes at Carrefour.

Dean Foods Names New Strategy Chief

Dean Foods promoted Greg McKelvey to the newly created post of chief strategy and transformation officer. McKelvey, who comes to the post from Dean’s WhiteWave subsidiary, will lead efforts to integrate and revamp Dean’s businesses and will implement its strategic growth plan.

Busch Sports-Marketing Head Retires

Tony Ponturo, chief of global media and sports marketing at Anheuser Busch, will retire at the end of the year after 26 years with the company, which this week was acquired by InBev in a $52 billion deal.

Hershey Names Global Veep

Terence O’Day, formerly of Mannatech, a maker of nutritional supplements, has been named senior vice president of global operations at Hershey. O’Day also previously worked for ConAgra Foods.