Associate Manager- Accelerators

Target • Minneapolis, MN

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Associate Manager - Accelerators helps bring Target Accelerator experiences to life throughout the Takeoff program lifecycle. Takeoff is a 12-week program that supports emerging consumer packaged goods brands launching at Target through education, mentorship, and strategic support focused on retail readiness, operational excellence, and launch preparation. The role owns and supports program operations, brand sourcing and engagement, educational programming, events, systems, and business development, in partnership with Accelerator leadership, Merchandising teams, and internal and external stakeholders.

This is a dynamic position on a lean team where priorities can change quickly. The Associate Manager balances planned program work with emerging opportunities, special projects, and business needs, using sound judgment, organization, adaptability, and independent initiative. The position is hybrid/flex and requires work both onsite at the assigned Target HQ Minnesota location and virtually, depending on the role, team, and daily tasks. Work may not be performed outside the country of the primary work location unless otherwise prescribed by Target.

Requirements

• Four-year degree or equivalent experience.
• Highly organized and process- and detail-oriented, with experience in event planning, logistics, and managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong facilitation, content creation, written, verbal, and presentation skills, including the ability to develop engaging materials and deliver diverse and inclusive experiences for internal and external audiences.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Creative problem-solving ability, sound judgment, comfort navigating ambiguity, and adaptability to changing priorities and evolving business needs.
• Self-motivated and proactive, with the ability to independently drive work forward while balancing competing priorities in a lean, dynamic team environment.
• Ability to build trusted relationships, establish rapport, and collaborate effectively across a large, complex enterprise and with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Entrepreneurial mindset, passion for innovation, curiosity about emerging businesses, and a collaborative, empathetic approach to teamwork.

Nice To Haves

• Smartsheet experience.
• Experience in merchandising (buying).

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day Accelerator program operations and translate priorities into actionable plans, timelines, and execution aligned with Merchandising transition calendars and category priorities.
• Coordinate in-person and virtual programming, including event logistics, run-of-show, technical support, speakers and mentors, communications, curriculum materials, session recordings, and participant experiences.
• Identify and engage emerging CPG brands through industry events, founder networks, and other sourcing activities.
• Represent Target Accelerators at internal and external events to build relationships, increase awareness, and identify opportunities aligned with Target Merchandising priorities.
• Manage the Accelerator brand proposal process, including supplier intake reviews, the Brands to Watch newsletter, transition proposals, and line-review webinars; coordinate brand feedback with Merchandising and Accelerator leadership.
• Build and maintain relationships with participating brands, speakers, subject-matter experts, mentors, and internal and external partners.
• Coordinate stakeholder communications, introductions, feedback, and follow-ups to ensure alignment and a positive participant experience.
• Develop and maintain operational playbooks, program documentation, and shared resources.
• Support team operations, including inbox management, budgeting, vendor setup, payments, and administrative processes.
• Support special projects and evolving business needs, including startup ecosystem research, program audits, event planning, and other initiatives.
• Exercise flexibility and independent judgment in a dynamic, lean team environment, including travel and occasional evening or weekend hours as needed.

Benefits

• Eligible team members and their dependents may receive comprehensive health benefits and programs, which may include medical, vision, dental, and life insurance.
• 401(k).
• Employee discount.
• Short-term disability.
• Long-term disability.
• Paid sick leave.
• Paid national holidays.
• Paid vacation.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level