Who is Brian Cornell? Check his Career & Target CEO Role

Brian Cornell, the long-serving CEO of Target, is stepping down from his role. Credited with a significant turnaround of the company, Cornell’s tenure was marked by a digital-first strategy, strong financial growth, and a focus on store modernization. His departure marks the end of a successful era, with his successor, Michael Fiddelke, set to take the helm. This transition represents a key moment for the retail giant as it moves into its next phase of leadership.

Aug 21, 2025, 07:53 EDT
Why is Target CEO Brian Cornell stepping down? (Source- Target Corporation)
Why is Target CEO Brian Cornell stepping down? (Source- Target Corporation)

In a pivotal moment for one of America's largest retailers, Target CEO Brian Cornell is stepping down from his role after a decade of transformative leadership. Cornell, who assumed the position in 2014, is widely credited with revitalizing the company by focusing on store modernization, digital integration, and a private-label strategy. His decision to retire marks the end of a highly successful era, during which Target saw a massive increase in its market value and customer loyalty. The announcement that Target CEO Brian Cornell stepping down has been met with respect for his achievements and an eye toward the company's future under a new leader. His legacy is defined by a deep understanding of consumer behavior and a willingness to embrace change in a challenging retail landscape.

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Who is Brian Cornell?

Brian Cornell is the departing CEO of Target, a position he held since 2014. A veteran of the retail and consumer products industries, his Brian Cornell Biography is marked by a history of leading major brands. He earned a bachelor's degree from the University of California, Los Angeles, and attended the Anderson School of Management at UCLA and the Executive Program at the Stanford University Graduate School of Business. Before joining Target, he held leadership roles at Sam's Club, PepsiCo, and other prominent companies, building a reputation for successfully steering businesses through periods of change and competitive pressure.

What were Key Roles in Brian Cornell's Career?

Brian Cornell's Career is defined by a series of high-level positions in the retail and food & beverage sectors. Before becoming the CEO of Target, he served as CEO of PepsiCo Americas Foods. He also held the position of Chief Marketing Officer at Safeway Inc. and served as an executive vice president at Sam's Club. His experience across various companies and roles, from marketing to operations, gave him a holistic perspective on business. At Target, his most significant role was as CEO of Target, where he launched a major turnaround plan that included modernizing stores, expanding the private-label brand portfolio, and boosting the company's e-commerce capabilities.

Why is Target CEO Brian Cornell stepping down?

Target CEO Brian Cornell stepping down from his role is part of a planned transition and retirement. The company announced that Cornell would step down from the CEO of Target position on February 1, 2026, after a decade of service. He will be succeeded by Michael Fiddelke, a longtime Target executive. Cornell will then transition to a new role as executive chair of the board, where he will continue to advise the company and provide guidance. The transition is aimed at ensuring a smooth and strategic handover of leadership, allowing the company to build on the foundation laid during his successful tenure.

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Conclusion

The departure of Target CEO Brian Cornell marks the end of a transformative decade for the company. His strategic vision revitalized Target's brand, modernized its operations, and positioned it for success in the digital age. As Michael Fiddelke prepares to take the helm, Cornell's legacy as a forward-thinking CEO of Target provides a strong foundation for the company's future. The planned transition ensures continuity and highlights the company's commitment to internal talent and stable leadership, underscoring the profound impact of Cornell's tenure.

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Alisha Louis
Alisha Louis

Content Writer

    Alisha Louis is a US Content Specialist with a Bachelor of Journalism and Mass Communication (BJMC) graduate degree. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, she specializes in covering trending news and educational developments across the United States. Her work combines journalistic precision with engaging narratives, making complex topics accessible and relevant for a diverse audience. Dedicated to delivering timely and trustworthy content, Alisha brings a fresh, insightful perspective to every piece she writes.

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    FAQs

    • What was Brian Cornell's biggest achievement as CEO of Target?
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      Cornell is widely credited with engineering a major turnaround for the company, including a successful digital-first strategy, store remodels, and a focus on new private-label brands that boosted both sales and market value.
    • When did Brian Cornell become CEO of Target?
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      Brian Cornell was appointed CEO of Target in 2014, leading the company through a significant period of modernization and growth over his decade-long tenure.
    • Who is replacing Brian Cornell as CEO of Target?
      +
      Michael Fiddelke, who has been with Target for over two decades and served as the company's chief operating officer, will succeed Brian Cornell as Target CEO.

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