BENTONVILLE, ARK. – Sara Mortimore has joined Walmart, Inc. as its new vice-president of global food safety compliance, effective May 13. She succeeds Frank Yiannas, who departed in late 2018 to become deputy commissioner for food policy and response at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Most recently, Ms. Mortimore was vice-president of product safety, quality and regulatory affairs for Land O'Lakes Inc., a role she has held for the last 11 years. Previously, she spent 18 years with General Mills, Inc. as director of quality and regulatory operations.

Ms. Mortimore has also co-authored a number of books on food safety with particular emphasis on Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HAACP) systems. Her main academic interest, Walmart said, is "the development of integrated food safety and quality management using a risk-based approach."

“It’s an honor to join a recognized leader in food safety,” Ms. Mortimore said. “Walmart has embraced emerging digital technologies while not losing sight of the foundational elements of sound food safety management. It is adapting to an increasingly complex global supply chain and changing consumer demands with an innovative mindset in food safety that is exciting to now be part of.”