Target Nabs Wingstop Marketer as New SVP of Marketing

Target has appointed Maurice Cooper as its newest senior vice president of marketing.

In joining the company, Cooper will directly oversee Target’s marketing operations, overseeing campaigns and promotions across paid, owned and shared media. According to a statement from Target, he will create “plans that are guest-centric, culturally relevant and inclusive to fuel consumer affinity for Target’s brand and grow its business.”

Cooper joins the Minneapolis-based retailer from Wingstop, where he served as the executive vice president and chief growth and experience officer. Before his time at Wingstop, he worked in the marketing departments at Coca-Cola and Intercontinental Hotels Group. He’s also the founder of marketing consulting firm Forward Vision Strategies.

“Having been a longtime fan of this iconic brand, it’s so inspiring to see Target’s transformation and leadership in retail, along with its impressive growth, and continued commitment to better serve its guests,” Cooper said in a statement. “I’m thrilled to join the team and am eager to help Target’s marketing bring even more joy and inspiration to all guests.”

In his new role, Cooper will report to Rick Gomez, Target’s executive vice president and chief marketing, digital and strategy officer. He starts at Target on Sept. 14.

It’s been a big year for Target, which saw a massive profits increase in Q2 of this year—80%—with sales rising 24.3%. The pandemic was a boon for the brand, as consumers sought to stock up on household essentials and other items, taking advantage of the retailer’s relatively new curbside pickup service, which saw a whopping 700% growth during the second quarter.