« I don't have a technical background, but it's my personal passion. If you're going to be relevant in electronics or entertainment, you've got to find the synergy between the website and the store. »

About Carl: At 37, he heads Target.com, mobile marketing and a coordinated store-online marketing strategy dubbed "Multichannel." He got the job on Black Friday in 2011, shortly after Target took control of the site from Amazon.

Personal file: Carl joined Target in 1997 after graduating from St. Olaf College with a double major in philosophy and history. Analytical by nature, Carl remains two credits shy of a degree in math. His experience in retail came from his father, who ran the Dayton Hudson home stores, and later Schneiderman's Furniture. Originally from Apple Valley, Carl lives in Edina with his wife, Jamie, and two sons, 7 and 4.

What's big in 2013: It'll be all about coordination. "Multichannel" allows customers to shop for and ship purchases via Target.com while in Target stores. QR codes (next-generation bar codes) in the stores will help customers find what they want at Target.com.

Final word: "Target has always been loved for our stores. But our website, mobile and social media platforms all help create one cohesive experience. This is the future of retail."

STEVE ALEXANDER