Target Shakes Up C-Suite in First Major Move Under New CEO

Rick Gomez and Jill Sando, long-time Target veterans, will depart as part of leadership changes.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Target's new CEO Michael Fiddelke is making his first major moves, reshuffling the company's leadership team. Veteran executives Rick Gomez and Jill Sando will be leaving the company, while Lisa Roath and Cara Sylvester will take on new roles. Fiddelke says the changes will allow Target to 'move with greater speed' as it looks to address operational challenges and revive sales.

Why it matters

The leadership changes come as Target struggles to find its footing, with customers complaining of messy stores and the company facing backlash over its diversity and inclusion initiatives as well as its response to recent violence in its hometown of Minneapolis. Fiddelke, a 20-year Target veteran, is looking to put his stamp on the company as it tries to chart a new course.

The details

Under the changes, Rick Gomez, who oversaw Target's vast merchandise inventory, will be leaving the company. Jill Sando, the chief merchandising officer who has been with Target since 1997, will retire. Lisa Roath, who previously oversaw food, essentials and cosmetics, will take on the role of chief operating officer, while Cara Sylvester, the former chief guest experience officer, will become the new chief merchandising officer.

  • The changes will take effect on Sunday, February 12, 2026.
  • Gomez and Sando will remain with the company for a short time to help with the transition.

The players

Michael Fiddelke

The new CEO of Target, who took over the role earlier this month.

Rick Gomez

A 23-year veteran of Target who oversaw the company's vast merchandise inventory and is now leaving the company.

Jill Sando

The chief merchandising officer who has been with Target since 1997 and is now retiring.

Lisa Roath

The executive who previously oversaw food, essentials and cosmetics, and is now taking on the role of chief operating officer.

Cara Sylvester

The former chief guest experience officer who is now becoming Target's new chief merchandising officer.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Michael Fiddelke, CEO (Fortune)

What’s next

The changes to Target's leadership team are expected to take effect on Sunday, February 12, 2026, as the company looks to move quickly to address its operational challenges and revive sales.

The takeaway

Fiddelke's first major moves as Target's new CEO signal a desire for faster action and a willingness to make significant changes to the company's leadership team as it seeks to regain its footing in a challenging retail environment.