Former Walmart exec Mullany new president at Toys "R" Us

Toys “R” Us late Wednesday named Antonio Urcelay CEO and brought in former Walmart executive Hank Mullany to serve in the newly created role of president of U.S. stores.

Urcelay, 61, had served in an interim CEO capacity since May and has been with the company since 1996. Mullany, 55, most recently served as CEO of The ServiceMaster Company, a position he assumed after his effort in 2010to join CVS Caremark as president of the retail division was blocked for competitive reason by Walmart where Mullany had served as EVP and president of Walmart’s northern business unit.

“When we started this search, we were looking for a leader with global experience, deep retail knowledge, proven capabilities and outstanding leadership skills,” according to a statement by the Toys “R” Us board. “As the search progressed, we found exactly the right combination of these attributes in Antonio and Hank. Antonio’s extensive knowledge of global markets makes him uniquely qualified to lead the organization as we expand rapidly in Asia and other parts of the world. He has impressed all of us with his vision and leadership of the team throughout the search process. Hank brings a fresh perspective to the business, which, in combination with his operational strengths, will help build on the significant progress that has been made in advancing the U.S. business.”

Urcelay will continue to provide worldwide leadership in driving key strategies and growth initiatives in the company’s more than 1,500 stores in 36 countries and jurisdictions around the world, according to Toys “R” Us. Mullany in his new role will oversee all merchandising, marketing, ecommerce and store operations responsibilities for the 878 store U.S. division.