Rob Walton

Mr. Walton is the Chairman of Wal-Mart and has been a member of the Board since 1978. Son of Wal-Mart pioneer Sam Walton (d. 1992) and siblings, sister-in-law reclaim spot in Forbes 400 Top 10 after falling off last year. Wal-Mart shares up 45% since last September, as cash-strapped consumers head to discount-driven superstores in droves. Also profiting from stake in solar-paneling outfit First Solar; shares up 120% in past 12 months. Sam started as J.C. Penney clerk in 1940; opened Newport, Ark. five-and-dime store Benjamin Franklin 5 years later. Lost lease in 1950. With brother James started general-store chain in Bentonville, Ark., 1962. Today Wal-Mart is world's largest retailer: 7,300 stores, 2 million employees serve 200 million customers. Sales: $378 billion. Rob is Wal-Mart chairman; helping company become eco-friendly through partnership with environmental group Conservation International. Rob joined Walmart in 1969, where he held a variety of positions, including senior vice president, corporate secretary, general counsel and vice chairman. He is a member of the board of directors at Walmart and served as chairman from 1992 to 2015. Before joining Walmart, Rob was a partner with the law firm of Conner & Winters in Tulsa, Okla. Rob is a graduate of the University of Arkansas and the Colombia University School of Law. He is married to Melani Walton and is the son of Helen Walton and Walmart founder Sam Walton.