Spelman College alumna becomes president of Sam’s Club

Spelman College alumna Latrice Watkins has entered history after named chief executive officer of Sam’s Club, marking a significant milestone in both corporate leadership and HBCU representation. Watkins’ appointment places her at the helm of one of the nation’s largest membership-based retail organizations and highlights a career defined by strategic vision, operational excellence and superior leadership.

Prior to assuming the role of CEO, Watkins spent several years serving in Walmart’s C-suite, building a career that began in 1997 when she joined the company as an intern in its real estate division. Through decades of dedication and leadership, Watkins rose steadily through the ranks, eventually becoming Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. In that role, she and her team focused on attracting higher-income customers by intentionally curating product ranges tailored to evolving customer preferences.

“My team and I select all the items that customers experience at Walmart. We consider ourselves their personal shoppers — we like to select the assortment,” Watkins said on Fast Company’s Fast Company Innovation Podcast. “We are focused on the customer. We start our conversations with what matters to them – what are they thinking and how can we serve them? That drives everything we do.”

Watkins also reflected on her journey and excitement for her new role in a LinkedIn post, highlighting the values ​​that continue to underpin her leadership.

“What I love about Walmart is simple – it’s a place where people matter and opportunities live,” she wrote. “It’s a company built on serving others and making an impact in communities every day. What’s special about Sam’s Club is the pride associates take in serving members, the focus on values ​​and quality, and the way the teams show up for each other. There’s undeniable momentum here, and I’m honored to lead the next chapter.”

As CEO, Watkins is expected to use her deep expertise to expand Sam’s Club’s market share, especially as it competes with industry rival Costco.

“We are an ‘and’ company—we are execution and innovation, people-driven and technology-driven,” Watkins said of her leadership approach. “We are focused on quality and value and ensuring that access is available to all who wish to purchase our products.”

Watkins follows following in the footsteps of fellow Spelman student Rosalind Brewerwho was previously CEO of Sam’s Club and held leadership positions at Walmart from 2006 to 2017. Watkins will officially step into her role as CEO of Sam’s Club on February 1.