Walmart to give leadership training to thousands of store managers nationwide

Walmart is upping its investment in its store managers.

The retail giant is expanding its Manager Academy, a week-long training course focused on the company’s culture and values. Walmart launched the pilot last year and, to date, more than 600 store managers have completed the program, which was initially given to new managers.

“The training was so beneficial to our new managers that we decided to bring all of our store managers through the training,” said Lorraine Stomski, senior VP, learning & leadership, Walmart. “This includes some who have been in the role for decades to brush up on their leadership skills and help mentor the newer managers.

This year, more than 2,000 store managers are expected to participate in the program, which will be held in the retailer’s home offices in Bentonville, Ark. The Manager Academy is part of Walmart’s $1 billion investment to provide U.S. employees with career-driven training and development through 2026.

The training program is designed to ensure that Walmart store managers are equipped with the leadership skills to manage hundreds of employees, build relationships in their communities and take care of customers.

The immersive experience concentrates on creating better customer experiences and higher employee engagement. Store managers receive a 360-degree feedback survey from fellow employees and managers, which they dig into while training. Following the week-long training, they participate in a six-month mentorship with managers who have completed the class and have longer tenures with strong track records.

“Store managers also work on case studies about leading store operations, network with senior leaders and peers, tour stores with the latest technology and deepen their understanding of associate well-being and growth,” said Stomski.