International grocer Walmart has appointed Lev Khasis as senior vice-president and chief leverage officer.

Khasis is the former chief executive of Russia’s largest retailer, X5 Retail Group. He will report directly to Doug McMillon, who heads Walmart’s international division, and will be responsible for integrating new retail acquisitions and combining purchasing across Walmart’s international estate.

Khasis said his appointment did not signify plans to enter the Russian market by Walmart. The retailer closed its Moscow office last December after failing to secure an acquisition.