Michael Terry Duke

Mike Duke served as CEO of Walmart, the world’s largest retailer and private employer, and was the fourth CEO since the company became publicly traded. He retired from that role in 2014.

Duke is a keynote speaker and has served on several boards, including the Walmart Board of Directors (as chairman of the executive committee) and boards for organizations like the Consumer Goods Forum, Conservation International, and Chick-fil-A.

Duke was ranked No. 10 on Forbes’ list of “The World’s Most Powerful People.” He developed his expertise by engaging with Walmart customers globally and collaborating with government officials. Duke shares insights on leadership, corporate culture, sustainability, and international retail growth.

During Duke’s leadership at Walmart, the company expanded into 27 countries, including China, Latin America, and Africa. He played a key role in advancing Walmart’s environmental and sustainability initiatives, including goals to achieve zero waste, operate on 100 percent renewable energy, and offer sustainable products.

Duke joined Walmart in 1995, leading logistics, distribution, and administration divisions, as well as Walmart U.S. He later served as vice chairman, overseeing Walmart International. Before Walmart, Duke spent 23 years in retail management with Federated Department Stores and May Department Stores.

He is also on the board of advisors for the University of Arkansas and the advisory board of the Tsinghua University School of Economics and Management in Beijing, China. Duke is a member of the National Academy of Engineering.

Duke earned a Bachelor of Science in industrial engineering from Georgia Institute of Technology. He continues to speak publicly on global retail trends, sustainability, leadership, digital transformation, and environmental responsibility, and remains active as a keynote speaker at major industry conferences and events.