Target Shakes Up Leadership Team Under New CEO

Veteran executives depart as retailer aims to move with greater speed under Michael Fiddelke's leadership.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Target's new CEO Michael Fiddelke is making major changes to the company's leadership team, including the departures of long-time executives Rick Gomez and Jill Sando. Fiddelke is reshuffling roles, with Lisa Roath becoming the new Chief Operating Officer and Cara Sylvester taking over as Chief Merchandising Officer. The changes come as Target looks to address operational struggles and revive sales amid a challenging retail environment.

Why it matters

The leadership shakeup at Target signals a new strategic direction under Fiddelke's tenure. As a 20-year company veteran, Fiddelke is seeking to inject fresh ideas and accelerate decision-making to help the retailer regain its footing. The changes come at a critical time for Target, which has faced operational challenges, consumer backlash, and a need to adapt to shifting shopping behaviors.

The details

Fiddelke is replacing several veteran executives, including Rick Gomez, the 23-year Target veteran who oversaw the company's merchandise inventory, and Jill Sando, the chief merchandising officer who has been with Target since 1997. 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.

  • On February 10, 2026, Target announced the leadership changes.
  • The changes will take effect on Sunday, February 13, 2026.

The players

Michael Fiddelke

The new CEO of Target, a 20-year company veteran who took over the top job this month.

Rick Gomez

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

Jill Sando

The chief merchandising officer overseeing categories like apparel and home, who has been with Target since 1997 and is 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 becoming the 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 (Target)

What’s next

The leadership changes at Target are effective immediately, with Gomez and Sando remaining for a short transition period.

The takeaway

The sweeping changes to Target's C-suite leadership under new CEO Michael Fiddelke signal a shift in strategy as the retailer looks to address operational challenges and revive sales in a difficult consumer environment. Fiddelke is bringing in new talent and empowering them to move quickly, marking a new era for the company.