Target Q2 preview

Target's New CEO Started As An Intern: A Look At The 22-Year Journey And His Plans For The Retailer

Target Corporation (NYSE:TGT) announced second-quarter financial results as well as the appointment of a new chief executive officer.

What Happened: Chief Operating Officer Michael Fiddelke will replace current CEO Brian Cornell in February 2026.

Fiddelke is a long-time Target insider who has held various roles at Target and will bring some familiarity with many aspects of the retail business to the forefront.

While some companies look outside when hiring a new CEO, Target is making a strategic bet on one of its own and a person who has been with the retailer for 22 years, starting as an intern and climbing the executive ranks over the years.

A look at Fiddelke's LinkedIn shows the following job history at Target:

The list shows over a dozen job titles and responsibilities held by Fiddelke during his tenure at Target. Over the 22 years, Fiddelke has led various parts of the business, which may help in his new role as CEO.

"Michael is known for his ability to modernize the business and accelerate growth. He currently leads Target's nearly 2,000 stores, its global supply chain network, fulfillment services including same-day delivery with Shipt, enterprise services and properties," Fiddelke's LinkedIn reads.

Read Also: Target’s Q2 Struggles Highlight Amazon, Walmart Competition

What's Next: Target investors will be hoping that Fiddelke can help transform the retailer back to the days of growth and help improve the falling stock.

Fiddelke's LinkedIn shares his experience across Target's finance, merchandise, human resources, operations, supply chain and digital capabilities.

Fiddelke added that he was "excited for what's ahead" and proud to be taking the next step forward.

While there would be massive pressure on an incoming CEO to a retailer that has been struggling with sales and stock prices, the appointment of an insider with so many years at the company could see Fiddelke face extra pressure to turn the company around.

TGT Price Action: Target stock trades at $96.97 on Thursday, versus a 52-week trading range of $87.35 to $161.84. Target stock is down 29.5% year-to-date in 2025 and shares are down 37% over the last five years.

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