Target taps insider Roath as operations chief in leadership shake‑up

Feb 10 (Reuters) - Target TGT.N on Tuesday named longtime executive Lisa Roath as its operating chief in a leadership reshuffle under new CEO Michael Fiddelke, as the U.S. retailer focuses on a sales revival.

The move comes as Fiddelke, who took charge earlier this month, steps up efforts to streamline operations and cut costs through layoffs, including an October plan to eliminate 1,800 corporate roles.

Roath, who joined the retailer in 2006 and has held a range of leadership positions, most recently oversaw its food, essentials and beauty merchandising.

Target said the leadership changes are intended to strengthen its merchandising expertise and improve the guest experience, areas that have become central to Fiddelke’s turnaround agenda.

The Minneapolis, Minnesota-based company on Tuesday also appointed Cara Sylvester as its chief merchandising officer effective February 15. It said Chief Commercial Officer Rick Gomez and Jill Sando, chief merchandising officer for apparel and accessories, will both leave the company.

"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," Fiddelke said in a statement.

The company also reiterated that it expects to report fourth-quarter 2025 sales and full-year adjusted profit in line with its prior forecast.