Target names former Gap exec the company's new evp, cmo

HTT Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 4/2/2012 11:52:06 AM

Minneapolis - After a search that began last fall, Target Corp. has named Jeffrey Jones II as its new evp and chief marketing officer, effective immediately.

Jones replaces Michael Francis, who left in early October to become the new president of JCPenney.

Most recently, Jones served as partner and president of McKinney, a Durham, N.C.-based advertising agency. Prior to that, he held several leadership positions at Gap Inc., including executive vp and chief marketing officer, responsible for leading marketing strategy, retail store design, store experience and all consumer communication. He also managed Gap's gift card subsidiary, Direct Consumer Services LLC, serving as president of the division. In addition, Jones previously held executive positions at marchFIRST Inc., Coca-Cola Company, Leo Burnett Worldwide, and served as president and chief executive officer of LB Works, a Chicago-based advertising agency associated with Leo Burnett.

"Marketing is a key differentiator for Target and I am confident that under Jeff's stewardship, we will continue to build on our long history of surprising and delighting our guests," said Gregg Steinhafel, chairman, president and ceo.

Jones described Target as "a brand I've studied and admired as a marketer for more than a decade, and one my family shops almost daily." Jones said.