Former Wal-Mart, Black & Decker Exec Joins GM Board

General Motors revealed Tuesday that it has welcomed a new member to its board of directors, electing a former executive with both Wal-Mart and Black & Decker to the position.

Joining the board is Thomas Schoewe, who previously was the executive vice president and chief financial officer of Wal-Mart Stores, where he served from 2000 to 2010. Before his time with Wal-Mart, he was Black & Decker Corp.’s senior vice president and chief financial officer.

Prior to his Black & Decker days, Schoewe worked at Beatrice Companies. While there, he held the position of CFO and controller for Beatrice Consumer Durables.

“We’re fortunate to have Tom join GM’s board of directors. He brings a wealth of business planning, financial experience and proven leadership, gained over more than 35 years at leading consumer-facing companies,” stated GM chairman and chief executive officer Dan Akerson.

“We’re eager to begin leveraging his expertise as we work to profitably grow GM’s business globally,” he added.

GM now has 12 board members. Non-employee directors comprise 10 of the 12 slots.

Sharing more about Schoewe’s background, he is also on the boards at KKR Management, Northrop Grumman Corp. and PulteGroup.