FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Jessica Salmon was named director of the Center for Retailing Excellence for the Sam M. Walton College of Business at the University of Arkansas, effective July 17. Previously, she served as director of finance and strategy for Walmart U.S.

"I am excited to have Jessica lead the CRE team," said Brent Williams, associate dean for executive education and outreach. "While at Walmart, she focused on growth initiatives, strategy and financial plans. She is a natural to expand our role in retail, connect students and faculty to industry leaders and serve as an ambassador for Walton."

Salmon previously was senior manager and project manager for the Sam's Club innovations team, where she worked on the club of the future and developed front end technology roadmaps and process enhancements. She also worked on the Sam's Club mobile team, developing strategic and technical roadmaps, mobile websites and multi-media marketing plans.

"My tenure at Walmart gave me a varied experience in the retail industry and its many facets," said Salmon. "I hope to use these skills to create a strong strategy and value proposition for the Center for Retailing Excellence. I am looking forward to partnering with students, staff and faculty at Walton, as well as our members."

Salmon received a bachelor of arts in marketing and communications from Taylor University and a master's of business administration from Penn State University. At Walmart, she served on the Women's Resource Council in volunteer roles.