Gregg W. Steinhafel '77

2000 Distinguished Alumnus Award for Professional Achievement

The Steinhafel name is a familiar one in the greater Milwaukee area. The successful furniture company has been around for years, founded by the patriarch of a larger German family. Gregg Steinhafel '77, one of six children growing up in Mequon, Wis., gained experience as a youth at the family business. Growing up, Gregg enjoyed listening to his father’s business stories around the dinner table, so he decided to pursue a degree in business administration at Carroll.
 
After graduation in 1977, he enrolled at the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University where he earned his master’s degree. He knew he wanted to work in retail, so he researched the department store and discount industries. He opted for discount and chose Target, headquartered in Minneapolis, Minn., because of the company’s growth potential.  He’s been there ever since.
 
He began with the company in 1979 as a marketing trainee and was promoted to president in 1999. In his 20 years with Target Stores, he has been a buyer, divisional merchandise manager, vice president of merchandising, senior vice president of merchandise planning and executive vice president of merchandising.  
 
Gregg has been credited with the retailer’s development of its niche as an upscale discounter, bringing expertise in merchandising of trendy products and effective private labels. He also guided the chain as it expanded its food program in the marketplace.
 
In addition to his professional achievements, Steinhafel has served on the boards of Associated Merchandising Corporation, Walker Art Center, United Way of the Minneapolis Area and the Toro Company.  
 
Currently, Gregg is Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Target Corp. As Chief Executive Officer, he is responsible for determining the company's strategy and clearly articulating priorities as well as aligning and motivating the organization to execute effectively and ensure continued success. These capabilities, combined with Mr. Steinhafel's intimate understanding of Target's guests and unwavering commitment to Target's brand, make him uniquely qualified to serve on the Board.
 
He and his wife, Denise, live in Minnesota and have three grown children.