Target hires former CIA officer as 'kids' gift detective'

MINNEAPOLIS — Target is hiring a former CIA officer to give parents tips on looking for presents for children who might not be forthcoming about what they want.

The mass-merchandise retailer said it had hired Jonna Mendez as a "kids' gift detective." Mendez will appear in videos with popular mom bloggers who will work with her on looking for presents.

"Before parents can start shopping for holiday gifts, they need to solve the puzzle of what their kids want most, which often extends beyond the toy aisles," Target SVP merchandising and hardlines Scott Nygaard said. "Target offers guests tools to build their lists, including a dedicated online portal, our annual kids' gifts catalog and the kids' gift detective, who brings some lighthearted fun to list building."

The company is also launching a web page, Target.com/KidsGifts, that will showcase popular gifts for the season.