Target has appointed its next Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Michael Fiddelke, as the retailer works to reverse declining sales and win back customer loyalty. The company announced Monday that Fiddelke, who is currently serving as Chief Operating Officer, will step into the new role in February 2026. Following the announcement, people started to Google him and his career background. And, they were surprised to learn that he actually joined the company as an intern.
Yes, you read that right. The man set to lead the $106-billion retailer first walked through its doors as an intern more than two decades ago.
Target’s next CEO joined as an intern
Fiddelke joined Target in 2003 as a finance intern for less than a year. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, first as a manager and then as director of Finance.
In 2009, he was appointed as the director of business intelligence and store operations. In 2013, almost 10 years after he joined the company, he was appointed as the Vice President of Pay and Benefits, followed by Senior V-P of Financial Planning and Analysis, and later as Senior Vice President of Merchandising Capabilities and Operations.
Come 2019, he became Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. In 2024, he was promoted again, this time as the COO of the company. In 2026, he will take over as CEO.
‘Fierce love for this company’: Target’s next CEO
In his LinkedIn post announcing his next role, Fiddelke said, “During my time at Target, I’ve had the chance to learn from incredible leaders, work alongside amazingly talented teams and develop a fierce love for this company and the special role it holds in our guests’ lives.”
He added, “That’s why I am honoured and excited to be named Target’s next CEO.”
The incoming CEO said that his “top priority” would be to help the company make a comeback, adding that they need to move ahead with “urgency and focus”, and make “bold” choices.
“We have the foundation to build new momentum, and I’m eager to accelerate work already underway and find new ways to deliver the incredible products and experiences our guests expect from us,” he further said.
‘Similar to Nike CEO’: Social media
People have been sharing screenshots of his inspiring LinkedIn profile on social media, with many pointing out that his story is similar to that of the Nike CEO. One X (formerly Twitter) user said, “Love to see the grind being rewarded.”
“That’s dope,” commented another, while a third found it “impressive”. “This is the corporate ladder dream: Intern to CEO/COO in 21 years at one company. Aspiration for many, frustration for most,” said yet another Internet user.