Walmart has announced that former Asda CMO Rick Bendel has left the company due to health concerns.
Bendel was appointed Asda CMO in 2006, but left the role last year to take on what was described as a ‘project-based international marketing role’ within Walmart. He was replaced by Stephen Smith, who was previously Walmart’s chief marketing officer for China.
Asda president Andy Clarke paid a glowing tribute to Bendel, who first started working on advertising for Asda back in 1991 at ad agency Publicis Worldwide, where he went on to become chief operating officer.
“Last week, Rick told me about his decision to leave Walmart,” said Clarke.
“I first worked with him in 1992 and have come to regard him as a great colleague and friend. His contribution to our business is immense but who couldn’t respect his decision to put his health first. On behalf of every Asda colleague, we wish him all the best.”
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