Nike on Wednesday named new heads of its sports marketing and legal departments as part of expected executive changes under new CEO Elliott Hill.
Mr. Hill did not discuss Nike’s plans, but the executive’s move appears to be in line with the company’s previously announced plans to focus more on sports and bring new products to market faster.
Ann Miller, who most recently worked as Nike’s top lawyer, now serves as executive vice president of global sports marketing, one of the company’s most important roles.
She replaces 26-year veteran John Thrasher, who is currently in charge of commercial operations for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Miller has been with Nike for 18 years and is a former college basketball player. Nike said in a press release that she will be responsible for growing the company’s business with athletes and leagues and helping Nike put sports “back at the heart of its business.”
Under former CEO John Donahoe, Nike made a big bet on lifestyle sneakers, a strategy that initially worked but has since faltered, giving rise to competitors.
“Anne brings a unique blend of athletic mindset, deep legal expertise and exceptional leadership,” Hill said in a press release.
The company also announced Wednesday that Venkatesh Alagirisamy, an 18-year veteran and current chief supply chain officer, will report to Hill and join the senior leadership team. Nike said the move will improve speed and efficiency, another priority.
Mr. Miller will be replaced by Rob Reinwand, a 20-year Nike veteran who serves as executive vice president and deputy general counsel, and will take over as head of the company’s legal department.
Mr. Miller and Mr. Reinwand will also join Nike’s senior leadership team and report directly to Mr. Hill.
– Matthew Kish covers businesses such as sportswear and the banking industry. Contact us at 503-221-4386, mkish@oregonian.com or @matthewkish.
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