Walmart Mexico CEO Ignacio Caride Steps Down; Cristian Barrientos Pozo to Take Interim Role

Web Editor

August 2, 2025

a man standing in front of a microphone in front of a map of mexico on a screen with a map of mexico

Background on Ignacio Caride and Walmart Mexico

Ignacio Caride, the current General Director of Walmart’s Mexico and Central America unit, has announced his departure from the position and the board of directors, effective immediately. Caride has been leading Walmart Mexico through a challenging period, as the company reported a 10.3% interannual decrease in profits for Q2 2024.

Walmart Mexico’s Financial Performance

Walmart de México, also known as Walmex, reported a net income of 11,227 million pesos for the second quarter of 2024, down from 12,510 million pesos in the same period last year. Despite the decline in profits, Walmex’s net sales increased by 8.3%, reaching 246,254 million pesos, driven by a 6% growth in revenues from both Mexico and Central America.

Cristian Barrientos Pozo to Assume Interim Role

Cristian Barrientos Pozo, the General Director of Walmart Chile, will take on the interim role of General Director for Walmart Mexico until a recruitment process is completed. Barrientos Pozo’s appointment aims to ensure continuity and stability during the transition period.

Walmart Chile and Cristian Barrientos Pozo

Cristian Barrientos Pozo has been the General Director of Walmart Chile since 2019. Under his leadership, Walmart Chile has maintained steady growth and expanded its market presence. Barrientos Pozo’s experience in managing a major Walmart unit positions him well to guide Walmart Mexico through its current challenges.

Impact on Walmart Mexico and the Retail Industry

Caride’s departure comes at a critical time for Walmart Mexico, as the company navigates a slow consumer spending recovery following the pandemic. Barrientos Pozo’s interim leadership will be crucial in maintaining operational efficiency and driving strategic initiatives to bolster Walmart Mexico’s performance.

Key Questions and Answers

  • Who is Ignacio Caride? Ignacio Caride was the General Director of Walmart’s Mexico and Central America unit until his recent departure.
  • Why is Cristian Barrientos Pozo taking over as interim General Director? Barrientos Pozo, the current General Director of Walmart Chile, will assume the interim role to ensure stability during the search for a permanent replacement.
  • What challenges is Walmart Mexico facing? Walmart Mexico is dealing with a slow consumer spending recovery and a 10.3% interannual decrease in profits for Q2 2024.
  • How has Walmart Mexico’s financial performance been affected? Despite the profit decline, Walmart Mexico’s net sales increased by 8.3%, supported by a 6% growth in revenues from both Mexico and Central America.