Target Corp has revealed the upcoming retirements of two top executives: John Mulligan, Executive Vice President (EVP) and Chief Operating Officer, and Laysha Ward, EVP and Chief External Engagement Officer.
Mulligan will continue in his role until February 2024, after which he will transition to a strategic advisor role with the company until February 2025. Ward will assume an advisory role through April 2024.
Target, the prominent U.S. retailer, has indicated that it will provide further details regarding its succession plans for Mulligan ahead of his official retirement.
Mulligan’s association with Target began in 1996 when he joined as a financial analyst. Over the years, he has held various leadership roles in finance, digital, and human resources, including his stint as Chief Financial Officer from 2012 to 2015. Notably, Mulligan took on the role of Interim President and CEO of Target in 2014, eventually rising to his current position in 2015.
Another long-time figure at Target, Laysha Ward, has dedicated more than two decades to championing corporate responsibility and the Target Foundation. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in establishing Target’s partnership with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the creation of St. Jude Target House I and II. These facilities offer free housing and support to families with children undergoing in-patient cancer treatment. Ward also spearheaded Target’s $1 billion commitment to education.
Brian Cornell, Chairman and CEO of Target, expressed his gratitude to both John and Laysha for their remarkable contributions to the company. He highlighted his anticipation of working closely with John until his retirement in 2025 and acknowledged the crucial role John will play in preparing his successor for success. Cornell also extended his best wishes to Laysha as she prepares for her next endeavors.
Concurrently with these retirements, Target has appointed Matt Zabel as the Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, reporting directly to Brian Cornell.
Furthermore, Kiera Fernandez has earned a promotion to the position of Executive Vice President (EVP) and Chief Community Impact and Equity Officer. Fernandez will serve as a member of Target’s leadership team, reporting to Zabel. In her new role, she will take on responsibilities for external stakeholder engagement and oversee the company’s strategies related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and corporate philanthropy.
