Lance de la Rosa, currently serving as the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Sam’s Club, has a remarkable journey that spans over three decades within the Walmart organization. With responsibilities covering nearly 600 Sam’s Club locations in the United States and Puerto Rico, de la Rosa's career trajectory exemplifies dedication, leadership, and a commitment to excellence.
De la Rosa's journey began over 32 years ago when he started as an hourly trainee at a Walmart store. Through hard work and determination, he progressed through various roles, including co-manager and store manager, before transitioning to Walmart International. During his time with Walmart International, he spent two years in Germany as a district manager advisor, gaining valuable insights into global operations and leadership.
In 2001, de la Rosa returned to Walmart U.S. as a divisional manager for the optical division, showcasing his versatility and adaptability within the organization. His role expanded to regional general manager, where he oversaw operations for over 200 Walmart stores across the Northeast region, demonstrating his ability to drive operational excellence and deliver results on a large scale. His journey with Sam’s Club began in 2010, where he has held several leadership positions, including senior vice president of the East division, senior vice president of operations transformation, and senior vice president of merchandise execution. In each role, he has played a pivotal role in driving innovation, efficiency, and growth within the organization, contributing to Sam’s Club's continued success as a leading membership warehouse club.
Beyond his professional achievements, de la Rosa is actively involved in his community, serving on several boards, including the Greater Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Urban League of Hudson County. He also lends his expertise to advisory councils such as the WALPAC Advisory Board and the Executive Advisory Council for the College of Business and Economics at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University.
Educationally, he holds a bachelor's degree in music education from East Tennessee State University, showcasing his diverse background and passion for education. He resides with his wife, Wendy, and their son, Carson, embodying a commitment to family and community values.
De la Rosa's journey from a humble trainee to an esteemed executive at Sam’s Club is a testament to his leadership, dedication, and passion for driving success. With his extensive experience, strategic vision, and commitment to excellence, de la Rosa continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Sam’s Club and the broader retail industry.