Target’s Store Director Development Program (SDDP) is transforming how we grow and support one of our most critical leadership roles—our store directors, who lead our nearly 2,000 stores and frontline team members. Built by store directors for store directors, SDDP equips these leaders for today’s dynamic retail environment. Developed through extensive feedback, testing and cross-functional collaboration with a group of store directors, the result is a highly relevant, practical and personal development experience.
After a successful pilot, we’ve reached a major milestone: SDDP is now available to our nearly 2,000 store directors across the country. And the program’s impact and innovation are being recognized —Target’s SDDP recently earned a Brandon Hall Group™ Gold award for Best Unique or Innovative Leadership Development Program.
About the program
The six-month program combines connection, reflection and real-world application. Through a mix of in-person and virtual workshops, guided peer groups, digital tools and on-the-job experiments, store directors explore new mindsets, strengthen core leadership skills and apply what they learn in the flow of their work. Key components include:
- An in-person kickoff workshop at our Minneapolis headquarters to experience the corporate office, ensure dedicated, protected time, and build relationships and momentum.
- Peer groups of five that meet regularly with structured guides to drive deep, practical conversations.
- Digital “workouts” that prompt reflection, peer learning, and experimentation to apply learning.
- On-the-job practice focused on real store challenges, helping leaders close the gap between knowing and doing.
- Engagement from direct leaders, District Senior Directors, including guided check-ins and encouragement to carve out this intentional development time.
It’s really exciting to see our Store Director Development Program set our leaders up for success as they navigate all of the change and complexity in their roles and in retail. Our store directors have shared how impactful this program has been in carving out dedicated time for their own growth. It allows them to fully step away — a rare opportunity in frontline retail leadership roles — to be present with their peers and emerge as stronger leaders in today’s ever-changing landscape. This program is so successful because it prioritizes time for learning, enables meaningful connection among leaders and has scaled to meet the growth in Target’s business.
Key highlights
Results from the pilot phase show how the program is driving meaningful growth, connection and performance among store leaders – impact that matters for our teams, guests and our business.
- 90%+ participants said the program will improve their job performance.
- 97% favorability in focusing on personal growth and development — a 36% increase post-program that reflects the formation of lasting habits for continuous learning.
- 99% of participants built a peer network they’ll continue learning from.
- 97% favorability in intent to stay at Target after the program.
Hear from participants
This program taught me something that changed my leadership: You don’t have to do it all alone. For years, I took on every challenge by myself. SDDP helped me see the power of connection — reaching out to peers, sharing ideas and leaning on others for support. But what really stands out is the ripple effect. The relationships I’ve built with my team and my supervisor have made me a more effective, transparent and intentional leader.
The most meaningful aspect of being a part of this program is the lifelong connections I’ve made, how it supported me during my new store opening process and how it reminded me how lucky I am to work for a company that continues to invest in its team’s development.
When I joined SDDP, I was focused on growing in my first store director assignment — but I walked away with so much more. The program gave me tools and insights that strengthened my leadership, and just as importantly, it connected me with peers who share the same passion for making an impact. The relationships I built continue to support and inspire me, and I’m excited to bring that energy into my next chapter as a leader.
The most meaningful part of participating in SDDP has been connecting with other store directors across the country and relating through our Target experiences. I hope to continue to push for progress in my own leadership. I want to continue to get better so that I can continue to develop a team to do the same.
Being part of the Store Director Development Program was a game-changer for me. It created intentional space to pause from the daily pace and focus on how I lead, not just what I lead. Through honest conversations, practical tools, and real-time challenges, I uncovered new ways to develop talent, influence outcomes, and stay grounded in my purpose. Most of all, I built relationships with peers who challenged and inspired me, and that energy will stay with me long after the program. I’m walking back into my store more connected, more confident, and more committed than ever.