NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE) has announced a significant leadership transition with the appointment of John Donahoe as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective January 13, 2020. This strategic move signals Nike’s commitment to accelerating its digital transformation and building upon its successful Consumer Direct Offense strategy. Mark Parker, who has served as CEO since 2006 and also held the roles of Chairman and President & CEO since 2016, will transition to Executive Chairman. In this new capacity, Parker will continue to guide the Board of Directors and collaborate closely with Donahoe and the senior management team, ensuring a smooth handover and continued strategic direction.
Mark Parker expressed his enthusiasm for this transition, stating, “This is an exciting time for Nike, with strong brand presence and momentum globally, and substantial opportunities for future growth. John’s expertise in digital commerce, technology, global strategy, and leadership, coupled with his established connection to the brand, makes him the ideal leader to propel our digital evolution and amplify the positive impact of our Consumer Direct Offense. I am eager to support John in his transition to this new role and to continue leading the Board as Executive Chairman, working in close partnership with him and the management team.”
John Donahoe also shared his excitement about his new role: “It is a privilege to become President and CEO of this incredible, innovative company. I am honored to join the more than 76,000 dedicated and passionate employees who serve athletes worldwide. Having been connected to Nike through my role on the Board for the past five years, I am now eager to become a full-time member of the team. I look forward to working even more closely with Mark, building on Nike’s achievements, and capitalizing on the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.”
Donahoe brings a wealth of experience to Nike. He is currently the President and CEO of ServiceNow, Inc. and a member of its Board of Directors. He also holds the position of Chairman of PayPal Holdings, Inc. Prior to these roles, Donahoe served as President and CEO of eBay, Inc. from 2008 to 2015. His leadership experience extends further back to Bain & Co., where he was CEO and Worldwide Managing Director from 1999 to 2005, and a Managing Director from 1992 to 1999. His academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in Economics from Dartmouth College and an MBA from Stanford University, providing him with a strong foundation in business and leadership.
John Donahoe’s appointment as CEO underscores Nike’s strategic focus on leveraging digital commerce and technology to enhance its global reach and consumer engagement. His proven track record in leading technology-driven companies positions him perfectly to steer Nike into its next phase of growth and innovation in the evolving global marketplace. Donahoe will remain a member of the Nike Board, a position he has held since 2014, ensuring continuity and a deep understanding of Nike’s ongoing strategies and vision.
