Ann Smaldon is an ambassador of Walmart’s culture of service, respect, excellence and integrity.
Before there was Walmart Canada or Supercentres in Ontario, there was a student named Ann who worked at Woolco. “I was hired as a part-time student in Woolco’s pet department in December 1969, making 85 cents an hour,” she recalls.
Over the years, Ann Smaldon’s career expanded significantly. She’s worked at Woolco’s in-house restaurant Red Grille, on the sales floor, in fashion, in invoicing and payroll — just to name a few roles.
When Walmart bought Woolco in 1994, she worked in the cash office at Supercentre 3049 in London, Ontario. And in 2007, she landed her dream job: personnel manager.
Not just a job
“Personnel manager was a position I wanted for a long time,” she says. “I just love what I do,” Ann shares with a smile. “I love helping people, not only in our work environment but also seeing them grow and develop personally.”
For Ann, it's not just a job. She makes a difference in the lives of associates and the communities we serve. She is well-known, well-liked and keeps her finger on the pulse of the store.
Ann has hired thousands of associates and worked with an impressive roster of Walmart Canada leaders, including former Walmart Canada COO Jim Thompson (who stops in to say hello when he’s in town). During the COVID-19 pandemic, she was integral in helping her store navigate absences and shutdowns.
Her dedication to supporting and mentoring associates earned her Shining Star of the Year honors twice in her market and once for the whole region.
The sky is the limit
Ann welcomes new associates warmly, thanking them for joining the Walmart team. Then, she shares how to succeed in their new role.
“I tell them, ‘Commit to your job and make sure you look after customers by showing up and being on time,’” she explains. “You are joining an exciting, exuberant organization where the sky is the limit on career opportunities. And it is all up to you to make it work.”
Ann is excited about the future and how Walmart supports the development of associates: “Walmart has opened up so many opportunities for associates to learn and expand their education.”
Her dedication, ability to take on new challenges and genuine passion for helping associates make her a respected management team partner. “I love how I am appreciated and feel a part of the team. I come to work each day and help associates in any capacity I can,” she says. “It is all about guidance and teamwork. And helping our communities in times of need.”
We’re thrilled to celebrate Ann as an ambassador of Walmart’s culture of service, respect, excellence and integrity as we celebrate Walmart Canada’s 30th birthday.
