Target Corporation announced a series of executive leadership changes under new CEO Michael Fiddelke aimed at accelerating the company's growth plans. The appointments follow recent additions to the Board of Directors and directly support Fiddelke's focus on strengthening merchandising authority and elevating the guest experience. Effective February 15, 2026, newly named executive vice presidents will oversee functions reporting directly to the CEO: Cara Sylvester is 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. Lisa Roath is 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. 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. As these leaders transition, the company is conducting an external search for a chief guest experience and marketing officer.
