Target Tech Executive Resigns

Beth Jacob, the highest-ranking technology executive at Target Corp. (Minneapolis), has resigned.

Jacob, who held the title of chief information officer and executive vp for technology services, is the first high-level executive to depart the retailer after a series of highly publicized computer hacking episodes.

She resigned a week after Target revealed how badly its profits had been hurt during the holiday season, certainly affected by the enormous breach of its system.

The company said it would name an interim information officer from outside Target while searching for a full-time replacement, in what ceo Gregg Steinhafel has  described as an “overhaul” of how the company protects sensitive information.

The New York Times reports that Jacob had been vp of Target Technology Services and chief information officer since 2008, but “does not appear to have a computer science background.” She first joined Target in 1984 as an assistant buyer.

The Times said “it is unclear how involved Jacob was in day-to-day protection,” though online security officials at the company ultimately reported to her.

“Target has declined to provide details on her training,” the Times reported.