The National Retail Federation has announced that Target board chairman and CEO Brian Cornell will receive The Visionary award, which it grants each year to an outstanding retail industry leader.
The Visionary award spotlights retail executives who have driven positive change in ways that influence the entire industry. NRF stated that the organization selected Cornell for his success in creating a business model and culture that stems from Target’s core purpose: Helping all families discover the joy of everyday life. NRF noted that he has prioritized investing in team members and placing stores at the center of Target’s omnichannel strategy to better serve the community Target reaches.
Past recipients include Kohl’s CEO Michelle Gass, Nike chairman, president and CEO Mark Parker, Walmart president and CEO Doug McMillon, and Levi Strauss & Co. president and CEO Chip Bergh.
“Brian Cornell’s purpose-driven leadership and strategic vision reflect an unwavering commitment to his team, and a keen ability to cut through the noise and truly understand what American families want and need,” NRF president and CEO Matthew Shay said in announcing the award. “From spearheading billions of dollars in investments in Target’s team and bold business strategy to cultivating a culture of care among hundreds of thousands of employees, to helping guide the industry throughout the challenges of the pandemic, Brian is an inspiring and innovative leader committed to making a positive impact inside and outside his company. Brian’s career and servant leadership are exemplary of why The Visionary award was created.”
