Wal-Mart hires HR supremo

Wal-Mart Stores has hired former Dollar General president and chief operating officer Lawrence Jackson to head its human resources division.

As head of HR, Jackson will have a responsibility for the retailer's army of 1.5 million employees worldwide. He will report to chief executive officer Lee Scott, who said: 'Our company is experiencing a time of tremendous growth and we need a strong leader like Lawrence to guide us through all the challenges that brings.'

Jackson joined Dollar General in September last year after working for six years at US grocer Safeway. He starts at Wal-Mart on October 15.

Jackson replaces Coleman Peterson, who retired in April.