Andy Clarke

Andy Clarke is departing as Asda CEO after six years at the helm

Asda owner Walmart has said that the UK supermarket's chief executive, Andy Clarke, is stepping down to be replaced by the head of Walmart's Chinese business, Sean Clarke.

Walmart said Sean Clarke – who started at Leeds-headquartered Asda in 2001 and has also worked for Walmart in Japan and Canada – and his level of experience will help him 'reposition' Asda in a competitive market.

Andy Clarke's exit comes after Asda reported seven straight quarters of falling sales.

He had tipped incoming COO – and fellow Yorkshireman – Roger Burnley to succed him, but Walmart bosses have snubbed this suggestion.