Judith McKenna to Co-Chair KultraLab Study on High-Performing Teams

KultraLab is thrilled to announce Judith McKenna as Co-Chair for an upcoming global study, ‘The Secret DNA of High-Performing Teams’. The study will identify the cultural and behavioural drivers of top performing store teams within the retail and consumer sector. Collaborating with over 15 global brands, the research will provide organisations with a valuable framework and measurement index for high-performance behaviours. This will serve as a benchmarking tool to gauge performance against other retailers.

As the recent President and CEO of Walmart International, Judith brings unparalleled expertise having overseen more than half a million individuals spanning 18 countries. Stepping away from Walmart at the end of January after 27 years, she has left behind a remarkable legacy. Widely recognised as one of the most senior female leaders in the retail industry, Judith has held roles as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Walmart U.S., supporting 1.3 million people across 4,500 stores. Prior to joining Walmart in 1996, she was the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer for Asda.

With a passion for developing people at all levels and creating opportunities for learning, Judith is ideally placed to share her extensive experience and insights on the true drivers of high-performing teams. She joins Sir Clive Woodward as Co-Chair of the report.

Taking to the stage at The World Retail Congress

Judith will be taking the stage at the World Retail Congress in Paris this April. During the event, she will give an exclusive interview to discuss her impressive career journey. Additionally, she will chair a panel discussion focussed on the research findings.

Commenting on her motivation to participate in the research, Judith said, “I’m passionate about retail. I have observed first-hand across many different countries and environments the impact a great team can make not only on the customer experience but also on team engagement. Gaining insights into the what and the why of great retail teams will benefit individuals globally and contribute to an overall improvement of the experiences of those working in it.”

Steve Baggi, CEO & Founder of KultraLab added, “I am really excited for Judith’s participation in this initiative. She is hugely respected across the retail sector. We feel very fortunate to benefit from her insights and experiences on what makes high-performing teams and the crucial behaviours for success. We have already conducted a large part of our research with 15 global brands now onboarded. We look forward to working together with Judith and sharing our findings in the coming months.”

Among the brands taking part in the study are Primark, Pret a Manger, Levi’s, End, Albertsons, SSP, Tesco, Ikea, JD Sports, Boots, Majid Al Futtaim, British Airways, Boots, Joe and the Juice and All Saints.