Wal-Mart taps staff attorney for top diversity position

Wal-Mart names new diversity executive

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — Wal-Mart Stores Inc. has promoted one of its staff attorneys to chief diversity officer.

Wal-Mart announced Monday that L. Mecole “Cole” Brown will oversee the company’s diversity strategy for its U.S. business. She replaces Charlyn Jarrells Porter, who held the post from 2004 until she announced her retirement in March.

Wal-Mart hired Brown in 2002, and she was named vice president of employment practices in 2007. She had also worked in the Sam’s Club division and in the company’s diversity office.

At Wal-Mart’s annual shareholders meeting this month, executives pledged to increase diversity. Brown will report to Tom Mars, executive vice president and chief administrative officer, formerly the company’s general counsel.