Wal-Mart's Harris to retire, Watts to gain some home duties

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 12/5/2003 12:00:00 AM

Wal-Mart's Harris to retire, Watts to gain some home duties Bentonville, AR — Wal-Mart Stores has announced that Don Harris, evp, general merchandise, for the Wal-Mart Stores division, is retiring after 23 years with the company. He will stay on until April 30, 2004, to help in the transition of his responsibilities.

As a result, Claire Watts, svp, product development, has been promoted to evp, merchandising. Along with her product development duties, she will assume the responsibility for the apparel and home furnishing merchandise programs. She will become a member of the executive committee, and now reports to Mike Duke, president and ceo, Wal-Mart Stores, U.S. division. Watts joined Wal-Mart in 1997 after an 18-year retail career that included positions at Limited Stores, Lands’ End and May Department Stores Co. Earlier this year, she was honored with the Sam M. Walton Entrepreneur of the Year Award, the highest internal award given senior management.

In addition, Doug Degn, evp, food merchandising, will now also be responsible for toys, electronics, sporting goods, lawn & garden and entertainment products. He will continue to report to Duke.