Nike Inc. will bring in a new CEO in October as current chief executive officer John Donahoe departs, the company announced Sept. 19.

The Beaverton, Oregon-based sports apparel and footwear maker’s board selected Nike and Jordan-brand marketing leader Elliott Hill to take Donahoe’s place. The news follows sales struggles and layoffs at Nike over the past year. It also comes just before the company is expected to announce quarterly earnings results on Oct. 1.

Nike ranks No. 9 in the Top 1000. The database is Digital Commerce 360’s ranking of the largest North American e-retailers by online sales. Digital Commerce 360 classifies Nike in the database as an Apparel & Accessories retailer.

Nike’s new CEO

Incoming Nike CEO Elliott Hill | Image credit: Nike

“I am excited to welcome Elliott back to Nike,” said Mark Parker, executive chairman of Nike. “Given our needs for the future, the past performance of the business, and after conducting a thoughtful succession process, the Board concluded it was clear Elliott’s global expertise, leadership style, and deep understanding of our industry and partners, paired with his passion for sport, our brands, products, consumers, athletes, and employees, make him the right person to lead Nike’s next stage of growth.”

Hill left Nike in 2020 after a three-decade career that began with an internship. His time there accompanied the rise of some of Nike’s most popular sneaker lines.

“Nike has always been a core part of who I am, and I’m ready to help lead it to an even brighter future,” said Hill. “For 32 years, I’ve had the privilege of working with the best in the industry, helping to shape our company into the magical place it is today.”

Parker expressed confidence in Hill’s ability to lead Nike as it confronts challenges in the apparel and shoe markets.

“Personally, I have worked with Elliott for more than 30 years and I look forward to supporting him and his senior management team as they seize the opportunities ahead,” Parker said.

Donahoe’s exit as CEO

Nike’s CEO transition will officially take place as Donahoe leaves the position on Oct. 13 and Hill assumes the duties of president and chief executive officer on Oct. 14.

“I would like to thank John for his contributions to Nike as President and CEO, and as a board member,” Parker said. “I would particularly like to recognize the role he played in leading the company during the COVID pandemic and his unwavering support for the investments Nike has made in our communities around the world.”

“It’s been an honor and privilege to be part of this incredible company, and I’ll always value my time at Nike and the opportunity to lead the organization,” Donahoe noted in Nike’s release. “I have great respect for Phil, Mark, Nike and its employees.”

Donahoe also added his support for Elliott as the transition takes place.

“It became clear now was the time to make a leadership change, and Elliott is the right person,” Donahoe said. “I look forward to seeing Nike and Elliott’s future successes.”

Hill’s previous accomplishments

Hill’s contributions at Nike included leadership roles in both Europe and North America. During his time there, the company grew annual sales to $39 billion. Prior to his retirement, his title was president of consumer and marketplace. He oversaw commercial and marketing operations for the Nike and Jordan brands.

“I’m eager to reconnect with the many employees and trusted partners I’ve worked with over the years, and just as excited to build new, impactful relationships that will move us ahead,” Hill said. “Together with our talented teams, I look forward to delivering bold, innovative products, that set us apart in the marketplace and captivate consumers for years to come.”

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