Walmart executive to speak at Wake Forest

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – Join Lee Scott as he discusses the “new normal” and how Walmart and businesses in general will need to adapt to the future.

H. Lee Scott Jr., former CEO of Wal-Mart Stores Inc., will talk about the economy and leadership when he visits Wake Forest University and the Schools of Business on Wednesday, March 24.

The event is part of the Leadership Speaker Series and is free and open to the public. The talk is scheduled from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM in Room 1312 of the Worrell Professional Center on campus. Scott now serves as chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors for Wal-Mart Stores Inc. As part of his presentation, titled “Leadership in the New Normal,” Scott will talk about leadership lessons — learned throughout his career — that can help people and businesses succeed and make a difference in this challenging economic environment.

Walmart is now recognized as a vital part of the solution to the most pressing economic and social challenges. In response to the health care crisis in the U.S., the Walmart team introduced $4 generic prescription drugs and in-store health clinics, and partnered with other employers and opinion leaders to call for major health care reform. The company also expanded its benefits and bonus program for associates. In the area of social and environmental responsibility, Walmart has emerged as a leader in sustainable practices, leveraging its global reach in three key areas: renewable energy, zero waste and sustainable products. The company has also set aggressive goals to work with suppliers in building a more responsible global supply chain.

Scott joined the company in September 1979 and has served as vice chairman and COO, executive vice president and president and CEO for Walmart U.S. He has been a member of the board since 1999. BusinessWeek says Scott, a 25-year veteran of the company, was instrumental in improving Walmart’s distribution network. Scott received a bachelor’s degree in business from Pittsburg State in Pittsburg, Kan., and was named Outstanding Alumni in 1995. He has completed the Executive Development Programs at Penn State and Columbia universities.