Target says CEO Michael Fiddelke is reshaping his executive team to sharpen the company’s merchandising authority and guest experience. The moves follow recent board appointments and focus on simplifying the retailer’s internal structure to drive faster growth.
The company also confirms that it expects to report fourth-quarter 2025 sales, full-year GAAP EPS and full-year adjusted EPS in line with its prior guidance.
“It’s the start of a new chapter for Target, and we’re moving quickly to take action against our priorities that will drive growth within our business,” Fiddelke says. “These leadership changes align the right talent and expertise with key roles and simplify our structure so we can advance our strategy with greater speed, clarity and accountability.”
Newly named executive vice presidents will oversee functions reporting directly to the CEO.
Cara Sylvester has been named chief merchandising officer, having previously served as chief guest experience officer. Sylvester brings deep merchandising expertise, with experience across digital, loyalty and marketing, and a track record of growing revenue, profitability and market share across categories. As Target’s singular merchandising chief, she will strengthen and expand Target’s authority in style and design through its merchandising capabilities, product development, assortment design and partner collaborations, the company says.
Lisa Roath has been named chief operating officer. Previously chief merchandising officer of food, essentials and beauty, Roath brings expertise leading an end-to-end retail operation, spanning merchandising, supply chain and stores. In her new role, she’ll focus on scaling Target’s style and design focus across the full operation, improving speed, efficiency and execution that elevates the shopping experience, according to the company.
“Cara and Lisa are proven leaders who deeply know our business and can drive change that delivers results,” Fiddelke says. “As they lead two of our most critical functions, we’ve got the right foundation to make bold, strategic moves and execute our plans for Target’s future.”
As part of these changes, Rick Gomez, chief commercial officer, will depart Target, and Jill Sando, chief merchandising officer for apparel and accessories, home and Fun101, will retire. Both will stay on for brief periods to support a smooth transition, the company says.
“I’ve worked alongside Rick and Jill for many years, and I’ve seen firsthand the real impact they’ve made on Target during their tenures,” Fiddelke says. “I want to thank Rick for his leadership in service to our team and guests, and congratulate Jill on her retirement after a remarkable 29 years with the company.”
As these leaders transition, the company is conducting an external search for a chief guest experience and marketing officer.
