By Ambrose Ameh Ejeh
Micheal Fiddelke has proved to many young professionals that climbing the ladder in the corporate world is possible, irrespective of doubts at certain points.
Target announced that Fiddelke, its current Chief Operating Officer (COO), will officially become Chief Executive Officer (CEO) in February 2026. He will succeed Brian Cornell, who retires after an impactful 11-year tenure.
What makes this transition remarkable is Fiddelke’s journey. He began at Target in 2003 as an intern. More than 20 years later, he is set to lead a Fortune 500 company valued at over $44 billion, taking charge at a time when the brand is under pressure.
Target has faced tough times recently. Comparable sales have dropped in six of the past nine quarters, with a 1.9% decline in the most recent quarter. Store foot traffic also fell 3.9% year-over-year in June, and the company’s stock has slid more than 28% in 2025 alone.
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Yet, in this moment of challenge, the board turned to someone who grew up inside the company. Fiddelke’s rise from intern to CEO reminds us that loyalty, consistency, and long-term growth still matter in business. For interns, young entrepreneurs, and future CEOs, the lesson is clear: don’t underestimate the power of starting small, staying committed, and learning every corner of the business.
On Target’s recent earnings call, Fiddelke outlined a simple but bold plan to get the company back on track. First, he wants to reestablish Target’s merchandising authority by breathing new life into its $31 billion private label portfolio across apparel, home, and food & beverage.
Second, he promised to elevate the customer experience. That means well-stocked shelves, clean layouts, and consistent service that brings joy back to shopping at Target.
Finally, he emphasized the role of technology and artificial intelligence in making the business faster, more accurate, and more efficient for both the company and its customers. For young entrepreneurs, this is a reminder that technology isn’t optional it’s a growth driver.
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Michael Fiddelke’s career arc holds powerful lessons. Start where you are, even if it’s just an internship. Stay committed, because steady growth over time builds deep understanding and leadership skills. And be ready to step up in tough times, because leadership is tested when the stakes are highest.
As he prepares to take the helm, Fiddelke represents what many ambitious young professionals should aim for: vision, resilience, and the ability to adapt while staying true to a long-term mission. For interns, entry-level staff, and young entrepreneurs, this is more than a corporate announcement it’s proof that your first step could lead to the corner office if you combine patience with bold leadership.
