Tesco Exec Mike McNamara Joins Target as CIO

Former Tesco executive Mike McNamara has been named EVP and chief information officer. He will replace the retiring Bob DeRodes, who joined the company last May after the devastating December 2013 security breach.

“Technology is critical for Target’s future success,” said CEO Brian Cornell. “So finding the right leader for this role was one of my absolute top priorities. Mike has been a driving force for technology innovation throughout his career. He’s got a stellar track record, and I’m excited to see how he’ll help our team continue to push new innovations that enhance the shopping experience for Target guests, both online and in stores.”

McNamara comes to Target from the U.K.-based grocery giant Tesco, where he has worked for the last 15 years, most recently as CIO. Target pointed to McNamara’s launching an innovation lab at Tesco and technologies like “scan-as-you-shop”.

“Tesco is a world class brand and I’m grateful for the time I spent there,” McNamara said in a statement. “Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to join Target at a time when Brian and the leadership team are intensifying their investment in technology and prioritizing its role in Target’s future success. I have long admired Target as a retailer and its legacy of putting customers first. To be part of an organization like Target and help shape the future of its technology and omnichannel strategy was a dream opportunity for me.”