The Journey of Michael Fiddelke: From Intern to Target's CEO

Michael Fiddelke is set to take the reins at Target, stepping into the CEO role in February. This move comes after a long journey within the company, starting as a humble intern over two decades ago. Before joining Target, Fiddelke spent time at Deloitte and earned his MBA from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management.

A Diverse Career Path

Fiddelke's career at Target has been diverse, with roles in finance, merchandising, operations, and human resources. He served as the Chief Financial Officer from 2019 to 2024 before becoming the Chief Operating Officer. In his current role, he oversees nearly 2,000 stores across the US and leads the company's global supply chain and fulfillment services.

Leading Through Challenges

The announcement of Fiddelke's promotion came alongside Target's first-quarter results in May. The company is aiming to deliver $2 billion in efficiencies through a "multi-year Enterprise Acceleration Office", which Fiddelke will lead. This initiative is crucial as Target faces stiff competition from budget retailers like Walmart.

Advice from the Top

Fiddelke recently shared his advice with summer interns, encouraging them to be curious, ask questions, and embrace feedback. His journey from intern to CEO serves as a testament to the value of persistence and continuous learning.

Mixed Reactions

However, not everyone is convinced that an internal hire is the right move for Target. The company's stock took a hit, dropping more than 10% in premarket trading on the day of the announcement. Fiddelke himself acknowledged the challenges ahead, stating that Target has "work to do to reach its full potential."

Community Involvement

In addition to his corporate duties, Fiddelke is involved in community service, sitting on the boards of the Minnesota Children's Museum and Script, a personal shopping and delivery service owned by Target.