Walmart has appointed Instagram founder Kevin Systrom to its board to tap into his “entrepreneurial background and digital expertise”.
Systrom became the 15th member of the retailer’s board on September 26. He will also serve on the company’s Technology and eCommerce Committee and its Compensation, Nominating and Governance Committee.
Walmart chairman Rob Walton said: “Kevin’s entrepreneurial background and his technical and digital expertise will be invaluable as we further connect with customers and deploy new capabilities through ecommerce and mobile channels.
“Walmart is investing in ecommerce capabilities through talent, technology and fulfilment. Kevin’s passion and deep knowledge of social media align with our focus to engage customers through our digital and physical channels.”
Systrom said he will advise the retailer on providing more convenient and flexible ways for people to shop.
Instagram was founded by Systrom in 2010 and acquired by Facebook for around $1bn in August 2012.
The photo-sharing site is yet to introduce any ecommerce functionality, but its parent company Facebook is testing a buy button on its own site.
Instagram is also in the process of rolling out adverts on its service and recently launched in the UK with companies including Waitrose.
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