Target Corp. named Cara Sylvester CMO and Lisa Roath COO as part of executive leadership changes under new CEO Michael Fiddelke.
The appointments are designed to strengthen merchandising authority and elevate the guest experience. Target confirmed it expects to report fourth quarter 2025 sales, full-year GAAP EPS and full-year Adjusted EPS in line with 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 said.
“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.”
Sylvester to oversee merchandising
Sylvester previously served as chief guest experience officer. She brings merchandising expertise spanning digital, loyalty and marketing, with a track record of growing revenue, profitability and market share across categories.
As Target’s singular merchandising chief, Sylvester will strengthen and expand the retailer’s authority in style and design through merchandising capabilities, product development, assortment design and partner collaborations.
Roath to lead operations
Roath previously served as CMO of food, essentials and beauty. She brings expertise leading end-to-end retail operations spanning merchandising, supply chain and stores.
In her new role, Roath will focus on scaling Target’s style and design focus across the full operation, improving speed, efficiency and execution to elevate the shopping experience.
“Cara and Lisa are proven leaders who deeply know our business and can drive change that delivers results,” Fiddelke said. “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.”
Leadership Departures
As part of the 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 briefly to support a smooth transition.
“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 said. “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.”
The company is conducting an external search for a chief guest experience and marketing officer. The leadership changes follow recent additions to Target’s board of directors and support Fiddelke’s focus on strengthening merchandising authority.
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